Diana Taurasi Retires After 20 Legendary WNBA Seasons

Basketball icon Diana Taurasi has officially retired from the WNBA after 20 seasons. In an interview with TIME, Taurasi confirmed she made the decision in early January, marking the end of an era for the Phoenix Mercury and the league as a whole.

At 42 years old, Taurasi cited her inability to fully commit to another 40-game season as the main reason for stepping away. She expressed that both mentally and physically, she felt it was the right time to retire. Rather than having a farewell tour, Taurasi chose to exit quietly, much like NBA legend Tim Duncan did in 2016.

Taurasi’s Retirement Decision

Taurasi had hinted at retirement in recent years but resisted a farewell tour. Instead, the Phoenix Mercury ran an “If this is it…” campaign near the end of the 2024 regular season and hosted a small ceremony after her final home game. 

She ultimately confirmed her decision after the Mercury’s first-round playoff loss to the Minnesota Lynx.

I was talking to [Brittney Griner] and I’m like, ‘There’s still days where I feel like I can do this,’” Taurasi said. “But then there are days where I’m crawling out of bed. That’s the struggle you have at this point in your career.

Phoenix Mercury and WNBA Reactions

Following the announcement, Phoenix Mercury owner Mat Ishbia praised Taurasi’s legacy, calling her "the greatest to have ever played the game" and emphasizing her impact on the franchise, community, and sport.

Mercury general manager Nick U’Ren agreed, praising Taurasi’s hard work and dedication.

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. She put in countless hours while no one was watching and she never took any shortcuts. I have tremendous respect and admiration for her – as a fan, as a colleague, and as a friend. I am incredibly grateful for the friendship we have built over the years.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert also acknowledged Taurasi’s impact, saying her career has boosted the league’s popularity and will influence future generations.

An Unmatched Career of Records and Championships

Taurasi’s list of accomplishments is unparalleled in the WNBA. She won three championships with the Mercury in 2007, 2009, and 2014 and was an 11-time All-Star. She holds the record for most All-WNBA selections (14) and First Team selections (10), won the 2009 MVP award, and claimed five scoring titles.

Her all-time scoring record of 10,646 points remains untouched, her 1,447 career three-pointers are 45% more than any other player in league history.

Taurasi revolutionized the game with her deep-range shooting, inspiring the next generation of players, including sharpshooters like Caitlin Clark, who has drawn comparisons for her deep three-point range and scoring ability.

Taurasi also played 638 career games, including her playoff appearances, and ranks second all-time in total minutes played, only 347 minutes behind Sue Bird’s record of 20,050 minutes.

One of the most remarkable stats highlighting her longevity is her 25 career games with 20-plus points after turning 40, an unmatched feat in WNBA history.

A Lasting Impact on Women’s Basketball

Beyond the WNBA, Taurasi was a dominant force in international basketball. She helped Team USA secure six Olympic gold medals, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest players in history.

A product of the UConn women’s basketball powerhouse, Taurasi won three NCAA titles under legendary coach Geno Auriemma, who credited her as one of the most influential figures in advancing women’s basketball.

NBA stars like LeBron James and Devin Booker have also praised Taurasi’s career, recognizing her as one of the most respected competitors in the game. The late Kobe Bryant was also an outspoken admirer, often calling Taurasi the most skilled women’s basketball player.

From one all-time leading scorer to another 🫡 

(via @TIME) pic.twitter.com/4JtYHAMmxB

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 25, 2025

What’s Next for the Phoenix Mercury?

As for her future, Taurasi remains uncertain about her next move. Right now, she’s focused on spending time with her family, including her two children with former Mercury teammate Penny Taylor. 

One thing she is certain about, though, is that she will not be returning to play.

I’m definitely retired. I’m going to miss the competition. I’m going to miss the bus rides, the shootarounds, the inside jokes. I’ll deeply miss everything that comes with being on a basketball team.
Though she steps away from the court, Taurasi’s impact on the WNBA and women’s sports as a whole will endure for generations to come.

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