Diana Taurasi, a legendary figure in women’s basketball, leaves the sport in a remarkable position following her announcement of retirement after 20 impactful seasons with the Phoenix Mercury.
In an interview, Taurasi confirmed her retirement, a decision that many had anticipated during the offseason. “Mentally and physically, I’m just full,” she stated, expressing her satisfaction with her career.
For years, you let us borrow your mom – late nights, road trips, long practices.
Thanks for letting us spend so much time with your mom over the years pic.twitter.com/xOY4RFAOgw
— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) February 25, 2025
Diana Taurasi: An All-Time Great in Women’s Basketball
Regarded as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time), Taurasi’s impressive resume includes three WNBA championships, three NCAA titles, and six EuroLeague titles. She is the all-time leading scorer in the WNBA, having scored over 3,000 points more than her closest competitor, Tina Charles.
Her record for three-point shots made and her six Olympic gold medals further solidify her legacy in women’s basketball.
“Diana Taurasi is one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game of basketball on any stage,” stated WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s statement on Diana Taurasi’s retirement after 20 seasons. pic.twitter.com/5ocOz8lRAp
— Annie Costabile (@AnnieCostabile) February 25, 2025
Taurasi acknowledged that her records are likely to be surpassed in the future, saying, “That’s what sports is all about. That’s going to be fun to watch. Hopefully not soon.”
The Timing of Taurasi’s Retirement
When drafted in 2004, women’s basketball faced numerous challenges, but Taurasi’s career coincided with a surge in popularity for the WNBA. As she retires, the league is experiencing unprecedented growth, largely due to young stars like Caitlin Clark.
With expansion teams on the horizon in cities like Golden State, Toronto, and Portland, the WNBA is poised for even greater heights.
The emergence of a talented rookie class, including Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink, has contributed significantly to the league’s growing viewership and engagement.
Although Taurasi experienced difficulties during her career, including limited salaries and less-than-full arenas, she benefited from the recent rise in viewership, which is expected to enhance the WNBA’s financial model in the future.
After her retirement, Taurasi expressed uncertainty about her next steps, stating, “I really enjoy taking my kids to school, being home when they’re home, not leaving for a week at a time.” Potential career paths in media or coaching loom on the horizon for the celebrated athlete.
Regardless of her future endeavors, Taurasi can take pride in knowing that she leaves women’s basketball in a stronger position than she found it, with her record and achievements standing unrivaled for the time being.
