Well, everyone, this is truly the end of an era. One of the greatest to ever grace the game, Diana Taurasi, is officially retiring. And let’s be honest—it’s tough to picture the WNBA without her.
In an exclusive interview with TIME, Taurasi didn’t mince words: “I just didn’t have it in me. That was pretty much when I knew it was time to walk away.” After 20 remarkable seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, she’s calling it quits on her own terms—fulfilled, content, and leaving behind a legacy that will stand the test of time.
The Résumé of a GOAT
Let’s break down what makes Diana Taurasi, well, Diana Taurasi. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 WNBA Draft after an already legendary college career at UConn, she wasted no time making her mark in the pros.
Her accolades? Simply staggering. Three WNBA championships (2007, 2009, 2014), two Finals MVPs, and a league MVP title in 2009, when she averaged 20.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. Add to that 11 WNBA All-Star selections and 14 All-WNBA team honors. The numbers speak for themselves—Taurasi didn’t just play the game, she defined it.
A Scoring Machine Like No Other
Diana Taurasi didn’t just put up points—she rewrote the history books. With an astonishing 10,646 career points—nearly 3,000 more than her closest competitor, Tina Charles—she stands as the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer. On top of that, she holds the record for the most three-pointers made in league history and sits fourth in career assists. Simply put, she wasn’t just great—she was unstoppable.
Beyond the WNBA: A Global Hooper
Taurasi’s dominance wasn’t limited to the WNBA—she was a force on the international stage as well. She claimed six EuroLeague championships and earned three EuroLeague MVP honors, proving she could shine anywhere in the world. On top of that, she was named Russian League Player of the Year three times while playing overseas. Taurasi didn’t just compete globally—she owned the international game.
Olympic Royalty
And then there’s Team USA. Taurasi didn’t just play for her country—she dominated on the international stage. With six Olympic gold medals to her name, she holds the record for the most golds won by any American basketball player, male or female. It’s an achievement that cements her legacy among the most decorated athletes in history.
The Greatest Ever?
The GOAT debate in women’s basketball is always up for discussion. Lisa Leslie, Cheryl Miller, Maya Moore, Sue Bird, Candace Parker—the list of legends is stacked. But one thing is certain: Diana Taurasi’s name is always in the conversation, and for good reason. Her longevity, her clutch performances, and her ability to score at will set her apart.
But Taurasi was more than just a scorer—she had that fire, that edge, that attitude. She talked trash, played with swagger, and backed up every single word with her game. You either loved her or hated playing against her, but one thing was undeniable—you respected her.
What can be Next for DT?
Now that she’s stepping away, what’s next? Coaching? Broadcasting? Front office? Whatever she chooses, one thing’s for sure—she won’t be far from the game. Taurasi is basketball, and her impact on the sport will be felt for generations to come.
So here’s to Diana Taurasi—The White Mamba, The GOAT, the fearless leader of Phoenix, and one of the best to ever lace ‘em up. The game won’t be the same without her, but man, what a ride it’s been.
