Diana Taurasi Retires After 20 Historic Seasons in the WNBA

Diana Taurasi Retires After 20 Historic Seasons in the WNBA

By Shane Young, Contributor – Focused on NBA analysis through the lens of X's and O's

Even the most distinguished careers must eventually come to an end. For the WNBA's greatest competitor and ambassador, that moment has arrived.

Diana Taurasi, an icon in women’s basketball and a global sports legend, announced her retirement from the WNBA in an interview with Sean Gregory of TIME on Tuesday. While it seemed likely that the 2024 season would be her final one, fans held onto hope that she might return for one last playoff run. Taurasi had remained silent about her future for the past five months, leaving many to wonder.

In the interview, she revealed that her decision was made in early January, around the time she would normally begin training for the upcoming season. At 42 years old, Taurasi knew she couldn’t give less than her best for a full 40-game season. If she wasn’t able to go all in, it wouldn’t be fair to her teammates. "Mentally and physically, I’m just full," Taurasi told TIME.

Unlike some athletes who take a retirement tour, Taurasi chose not to make her final season about distractions. Instead, she quietly exits the game like Tim Duncan did in 2016, on her own terms.

Following the announcement, Phoenix Mercury owner Mat Ishbia praised Taurasi’s impact, both on and off the court. "Diana is the greatest to have ever played the game," Ishbia said. "Her impact on our franchise, our community, and the sport of basketball is immeasurable. She’s synonymous with the Phoenix Mercury and will always be part of our family."

Mercury GM Nick U’Ren echoed Ishbia’s sentiments, emphasizing Taurasi’s incredible work ethic and dedication. "Her countless accolades speak for themselves, but it’s her passion and commitment to the game that stands out to me. I have great admiration for her as a friend, colleague, and fan."

Taurasi’s list of accomplishments is unparalleled. A three-time WNBA champion with the Mercury (2007, 2009, and 2014), she was named an 11-time All-Star, just two shy of Sue Bird’s record. Over her 20 seasons, she earned All-WNBA honors 14 times, including 10 First Team selections—both of which are league records. She was also named the 2009 MVP and won the WNBA scoring title five times. Her career total of 10,646 regular-season points remains unmatched and will likely stand for years to come.

Perhaps her most defining achievement was her three-point shooting. Taurasi connected on 1,447 threes, nearly 45% more than the next closest player, Sue Bird. She embraced the evolving analytics-driven approach to basketball, setting the standard for off-the-dribble three-point shooting.

Taurasi played 638 career games, including postseason appearances, finishing second all-time in total minutes played. Her longevity is unmatched, with 25 career games scoring 20 or more points after turning 40—no one else has more than two such games.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised Taurasi’s impact, noting her role in elevating the league’s popularity. "Diana Taurasi is one of the greatest competitors in basketball history," Engelbert said. "In her 20 seasons, she set records, earned the respect of players worldwide, and delivered unforgettable moments. She leaves a legacy that will inspire future generations of basketball players."

Beyond her WNBA career, Taurasi also earned six gold medals with Team USA, further cementing her place as one of the sport's greatest players.

Taurasi, a product of the University of Connecticut, won three NCAA championships from 2002 to 2004 under legendary coach Geno Auriemma, earning Most Outstanding Player honors in two of those title runs.

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