Diana Taurasi, one of the greatest players in women’s basketball history, has officially announced her retirement after an extraordinary 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury. The WNBA legend took time to reflect before making the decision, ultimately choosing to step away from the game with the same decisiveness that defined her career.
Taurasi Reflects on Her Legendary Journey
“I thought long and hard about maybe playing again, but I knew in my heart that I was physically and mentally fulfilled with basketball,” Taurasi shared at her retirement press conference on Thursday.
A Legacy at the Peak of Women’s Basketball
Taurasi leaves the game at the peak of women’s basketball’s popularity, with record-breaking attendance, viewership, and merchandise sales. As one of the most influential figures in the sport, Taurasi helped lay the foundation for this growth.
Taurasi’s Unmatched Achievements and Championship Glory
Known for her confident persona and trademark tight hair bun, Taurasi inspired a generation of players, shattering records and leading teams to championships. She helped lead the University of Connecticut to three consecutive national titles from 2001 to 2004 and continued her dominance in the WNBA after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Phoenix Mercury in the 2004 draft.
Throughout her career, Taurasi led the Mercury to three WNBA championships, earned the 2009 WNBA MVP award, and was named WNBA Finals MVP twice, in 2009 and 2014. She also made the all-WNBA first team 10 times and was a 14-time all-WNBA selection. The 42-year-old holds numerous WNBA records, including most career points (10,646) and playoff records for scoring, field goals, 3-pointers, and 30-point games.
A Global Icon: Euroleague Championships and Olympic Success
In addition to her WNBA achievements, Taurasi claimed six Euroleague championships and earned her record sixth Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games. Her career averages of 18.8 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds solidified her as one of the most accomplished players in history.
Taurasi’s Legacy as an Ambassador for the Game
Taurasi’s remarkable journey not only marked a prolific playing career but also solidified her legacy as an ambassador for the game. “I did everything to win-I wanted to compete and gain the respect of the people around me,” Taurasi emphasized.
Taurasi to Spend Retirement with Family and Be Honored by the Mercury
Now, as she enjoys retirement, Taurasi will spend more time with her wife, Penny Taylor, a former Mercury teammate, and their two children. In recognition of her incredible contributions to the team, the Phoenix Mercury will induct her into their Ring of Honor this summer, celebrating her as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
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