A Legendary Career of Achievement
With her retirement, Taurasi brings an end to a remarkable 20-year career that had a lasting impact on the WNBA and the sport in general. A six-time Olympic gold medalist, she guided the Phoenix Mercury to three WNBA titles and led Team USA to unprecedented success on the international scene. In addition to making 11 All-Star selections and becoming the WNBA’s all-time top scorer—achieving the record 10,000-point mark—she was voted the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2009.
The Final Decision and Speculation
After months of conjecture, she has decided to leave the game. After the Mercury’s season-ending home game in September of last year, Taurasi spoke to the audience as supporters yelled, “One more year.” Her sincere message conveyed her profound gratitude to the league and its players, even though she did not at the time declare her retirement. “It takes a village,” she remarked, expressing gratitude to each and every coach, player, and individual who has worn a WNBA jersey. “We are grateful to everyone who participated before this league reached its current state. We are also appreciative of the upcoming generation.
The WNBA has expanded dramatically since Taurasi was selected in the 2004 NBA Draft, as seen by greater fan involvement, growing broadcast ratings, and fresh league investment. With an average viewership of 1.6 million, the 2023 WNBA Finals between the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty boded well for women’s basketball. The league’s ongoing growth is further evidenced by plans to add three new franchises in the next two years and a new media rights agreement.
“Diana Taurasi is one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game of basketball on any stage,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who complimented Taurasi’s influence on the sport. I appreciate all that Diana has contributed to the WNBA, including her enthusiasm, her charm, and, above all, her unwavering commitment to the sport.
Taurasi’s legacy as a trailblazer and ferocious competitor will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players even after she retires from the game. Her name will live on among the basketball legends because of her impact on the game, both on and off the court.
