Diana Taurasi is a name that has become synonymous with greatness in women’s basketball. From her early days as a young athlete to her rise as one of the most recognized players in the history of the WNBA, Taurasi has left an indelible mark on the game. In this blog, we’ll take you through the legendary career of Diana Taurasi, her unforgettable moments on the court, her journey with the Phoenix Mercury, and her impact on the WNBA.
Who is Diana Taurasi?
Diana Taurasi is widely regarded as one of the best women’s basketball players of all time. Born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California, she grew up with a passion for sports. Her skills and dedication led her to a stellar career that would span 20 seasons in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), where she played her entire career with the Phoenix Mercury.
Diana Taurasi’s Early Life and Rise to Fame
Diana’s journey to basketball stardom began during her college days at the University of Connecticut (UConn). Playing under coach Geno Auriemma, she quickly became a household name. Diana was known for her incredible shooting ability, leadership skills, and her competitive spirit. By the time she left college, she had already won multiple NCAA championships and was the consensus number one pick in the 2004 WNBA Draft.
Diana Taurasi: The Phoenix Mercury’s Heart and Soul
The Phoenix Mercury drafted Diana Taurasi first overall in 2004. From the moment she stepped onto the court, she made an immediate impact. Taurasi’s career with the Mercury was nothing short of legendary. She became the face of the franchise, leading them to multiple championships and earning countless awards along the way. Her leadership and scoring ability made her a key player for Phoenix, and she quickly became a fan favorite.
Throughout her 20-year career, Taurasi became known for her scoring ability, her clutch performances, and her high basketball IQ. She was the player that the Phoenix Mercury could count on when the game was on the line. Her commitment to the team and her drive to win helped Phoenix become one of the most successful franchises in WNBA history.
Diana Taurasi’s Achievements in the WNBA
Diana Taurasi’s list of accomplishments in the WNBA is impressive. She is a three-time WNBA champion, having led the Phoenix Mercury to titles in 2007, 2009, and 2014. Taurasi is also a multiple-time WNBA Finals MVP, showing her ability to perform on the biggest stage. But her individual awards go far beyond just the championships.
Taurasi is a nine-time WNBA All-Star, and she has been named to the All-WNBA First Team multiple times throughout her career. She was also honored as the WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2009. One of her most notable achievements is becoming the all-time leading scorer in WNBA history, surpassing 9,000 points during her career.
Diana Taurasi’s Style of Play
What sets Diana Taurasi apart from other players is her unique style of play. Known for her scoring prowess, Taurasi is an excellent shooter, both from long-range and mid-range. She also has the ability to drive to the basket and finish with contact, making her one of the most complete offensive players in the history of the game.
Beyond her scoring, Taurasi is an exceptional playmaker. Her court vision and passing ability have made her a key facilitator for the Mercury. She can set up her teammates just as well as she can score, and that has made her an even more dangerous player on the court.
Diana Taurasi: Off the Court and Personal Life
While Taurasi is best known for her basketball achievements, she has also been active in various charitable endeavors. She has used her platform to advocate for women’s sports and gender equality. She is a role model for young athletes, showing them that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
In her personal life, Diana Taurasi is married to former Australian basketball star Penny Taylor. The couple has a son, and Taurasi has shared that her family is her greatest source of strength. Despite her high-profile career, Taurasi has managed to keep her personal life private, and she remains a grounded and humble individual.
Is Diana Taurasi Still Playing?
As of now, Diana Taurasi continues to play in the WNBA, despite being in the latter stages of her career. She has shown no signs of slowing down and remains one of the top players in the league. However, fans are always curious about when she will retire, especially after an incredible career that spans two decades.
Diana Taurasi’s Net Worth
Over the course of her 20-year career, Diana Taurasi has earned significant wealth, not only from her WNBA contract but also from endorsement deals, appearances, and her international career. As of 2025, Taurasi’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million to $5 million, making her one of the wealthiest female athletes in the world. This wealth reflects her success both on and off the court.
Diana Taurasi’s Nickname and Legacy
Diana Taurasi is often called “The White Mamba,” a nickname that honors her skills and competitive spirit, drawing comparisons to Kobe Bryant’s “Black Mamba.” This nickname reflects her mentality and the way she approaches the game—focused, determined, and never backing down from a challenge.
Taurasi’s legacy is one that will never be forgotten. She has paved the way for future generations of women basketball players, and her influence extends far beyond the WNBA. Her name will always be synonymous with excellence in women’s sports.
Diana Taurasi Retires: The End of an Era?
The question on every basketball fan’s mind is when Diana Taurasi will retire. While she has not made an official announcement, it’s clear that her time in the WNBA is limited. Whether she decides to retire soon or plays a few more seasons, there’s no doubt that her legacy will continue to inspire future players.
As Taurasi’s career comes to a close, one thing is certain: she will forever be remembered as one of the greatest to ever play the game. Her records, championships, and impact on the sport are unmatched.
Other WNBA Icons: Sue Bird vs Diana Taurasi
Throughout her career, Taurasi has often been compared to another WNBA legend, Sue Bird. Both players have had exceptional careers and have been teammates on the US Women’s National Basketball Team. While their playing styles may differ, both are recognized for their leadership and their role in shaping women’s basketball.
Final Thoughts on Diana Taurasi’s Career
Diana Taurasi is a living legend in the world of women’s basketball. Her career is a testament to hard work, determination, and an unwavering love for the game. From her college days at UConn to her legendary career with the Phoenix Mercury, Taurasi has proven time and again that she is one of the best to ever play the sport. Her legacy will live on for years to come, and she will always be remembered as an icon in the WNBA.
