Diana Taurasi, the Phoenix Mercury’s all-time leading scorer and a towering figure in women’s basketball, has officially retired after 20 iconic WNBA seasons. The three-time champion and six-time Olympic gold medalist confirmed her decision in an emotional interview with Time magazine, citing mental and physical fulfillment as her reason to step away. “I’m full and I’m happy,” Taurasi said, closing a career that redefined excellence in the sport.
Known for her signature taut hair bun and clutch performances, Taurasi leaves as the WNBA’s career scoring leader (10,646 points) and a trailblazer for future generations. Her journey began at UConn, where she led the Huskies to three consecutive NCAA titles before becoming the Mercury’s No. 1 draft pick in 2004.
“Diana is the greatest winner in basketball history,”said UConn coach Geno Auriemma, who called her legacy a “saga” spanning championships, records, and global influence.
Taurasi’s accolades include:
- 3 WNBA championships (2007, 2009, 2014)
- 6 Olympic gold medals (2004–2024)
- 10-time All-WNBA First Team selection
- 2009 MVP and dual Finals MVP honors
Her dominance extended overseas, where she won six Euroleague titles while balancing year-round play. “She transcended the game,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert noted, emphasizing Taurasi’s role in elevating the league’s profile. Phoenix Mercury owner Mat Ishbia echoed the sentiment, calling her “synonymous with our franchise.”
Retiring at 42, Taurasi now shifts focus to family life with wife Penny Taylor—a former Mercury star—and their two children. Yet her statistical legacy remains unmatched: 18.8 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game over two decades. Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon summed it up:
“Our league will miss her nastiness… that competitive fire.”
As tributes pour in, Taurasi’s impact on basketball’s growth—from NCAA courts to Olympic podiums—solidifies her as a once-in-a-generation athlete. Her retirement marks not just an end, but a celebration of a WNBA legacy that will inspire for decades.
