Diana Taurasi, the all-time leading scorer in WNBA history and a six-time Olympic gold medalist, has announced her retirement from basketball. Known for her unwavering dedication, Taurasi typically began preparing for her upcoming season on January 1, allowing herself four months to hone every aspect of her game before the Phoenix Mercury's training camp. However, this New Year’s Day felt different for the 42-year-old. “I just didn’t have it in me,” Taurasi shared with TIME from her home in Phoenix. “That was pretty much when I knew it was time to walk away.”
In an exclusive conversation with TIME, Taurasi reveals her decision to retire. “Mentally and physically, I’m just full,” she explained, describing her feelings after two decades with the Mercury. “I’m full and I’m happy.” Taurasi's career boasts an impressive resume, making her a strong contender for the title of women’s-basketball GOAT (Greatest of All Time). Not only did she score a record 10,646 points in the regular season, nearly 3,000 more than runner-up Tina Charles, but she also hit more three-pointers than anyone in WNBA history and ranks fourth all-time in assists.
Her accolades include three WNBA championships (2007, 2009, and 2014), three NCAA championships, six Euroleague titles, and six Olympic golds, an all-time record for a basketball player. Taurasi was the 2009 WNBA MVP and earned numerous other MVP honors across different leagues. Her former college and Olympic coach, Geno Auriemma, remarked, “Until someone comes along and eclipses what she’s done, then yes, she is the GOAT.”
Taurasi leaves the WNBA stronger than when she entered, having played a pivotal role in the league's growth and success. “You can’t tell the story of the WNBA without Diana,” said NBA commissioner Adam Silver. “She helped build the league into what it is today and inspired generations of fans and players.” Her excellence on the court was matched by her confidence and fluidity, making her a captivating figure in women’s basketball.
Her charismatic and competitive nature was well-recognized by peers and fans alike. “Every time she touched the ball, you expected her to make something happen,” said Sue Bird, the WNBA’s all-time assists leader and Taurasi’s longtime teammate. NBA star LeBron James praised Taurasi's influence, saying, “She’s one of the all-time greatest, and she will leave her mark on the game of basketball the moment she ties those shoes up and throws them over the pole line.”
Taurasi's lively personality was evident from her childhood days in Los Angeles and Chino, California. The daughter of immigrants, basketball was a constant in her life, helping her feel connected and comfortable. Her parents made sacrifices for her basketball dreams, even skipping bill payments to buy her new sneakers. Taurasi’s talent earned her a scholarship to UConn, where she delivered three consecutive national titles and numerous individual honors.
The Mercury selected Taurasi as the top overall pick in the 2004 WNBA draft, and she exceeded expectations throughout her career. Her international success is equally noteworthy, with a 42-0 record in Olympic basketball games and three World Cup titles. Her time overseas, particularly in Russia, was transformative, teaching her invaluable life lessons.
As Taurasi steps away from professional basketball, she looks forward to spending more time with her family. She and her wife Penny Taylor, a former Mercury teammate and international basketball star, have two children. Taurasi remains uncertain about her next steps but cherishes the opportunity to be present with her family.
Diana Taurasi’s retirement marks the end of an era in women’s basketball. Her unparalleled achievements, dedication, and influence have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring countless players and fans worldwide.
