Diana Taurasi Calls It a Career: “I’m Full and I’m Happy”
Diana Taurasi, the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer and a three-time league champion, officially announced her retirement today, bringing an end to a legendary 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury. The six-time Olympic gold medalist made the announcement through Time magazine, stating, “Mentally and physically, I’m just full. That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy.”
Taurasi’s departure marks the conclusion of an era for women’s basketball, where she stood as the face of the Mercury and the WNBA, captivating fans with her relentless competitive spirit, unmatched scoring ability, and dedication to the game. Over two decades, she became synonymous with excellence, pushing the boundaries of the sport while inspiring generations of players to follow in her footsteps.
Mat Ishbia, owner of the Mercury and the Phoenix Suns, praised Taurasi’s enduring impact, stating, “Diana is the greatest to have ever played the game. I’ve been a fan of her my entire life. She is the ultimate leader and teammate. She’s had an incredible impact on our franchise, our community, and the game of basketball. Her name is synonymous with the Phoenix Mercury, and she will forever be part of our family.”
Throughout her career, Taurasi’s presence transformed the Mercury franchise, turning it into one of the WNBA’s most successful teams. As Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein reflected, “Diana has been the face of the Mercury and women’s basketball for 20 years. She revolutionized the game with her scoring ability, infectious personality, and the edge she brought to the court every night. There will only ever be one Diana Taurasi, and she will continue to inspire us for years to come.”
Her relentless work ethic and dedication never wavered, as Mercury General Manager Nick U’Ren noted: “Diana’s impact on our organization and league, the championships, and her countless accolades speak for themselves, but what will always stand out to me is her unmatched work ethic, dedication to her craft, and passion for the game.”
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert acknowledged Taurasi’s lasting imprint on the sport: “She has earned the unquestioned respect of players around the globe, delivered electrifying moments, and captivated fans again and again. She leaves a lasting legacy, and the future of the WNBA is in a great position because of her impact, which will be felt for generations to come.”
Geno Auriemma, Taurasi’s former college coach at UConn, perhaps summarized her impact best: “For as long as people talk about college basketball, WNBA basketball, Olympic basketball: Diana is the greatest winner in the history of basketball, period.”
As the WNBA bids farewell to one of its greatest icons, Taurasi’s influence will continue to resonate throughout the sport. She may be stepping away from the court, but her legacy as a pioneer, champion, and leader will endure for generations to come.
