A Basketball Icon Hangs Up Her Shoes
WNBA superstar and future Hall of Famer Diana Taurasi has announced her retirement from basketball after a monumental 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury. In an exclusive interview with TIME’s Sean Gregory, the 42-year-old shared her emotional decision and the profound impact basketball has had on her life. "As a little kid, being a kid of immigrants coming to this country, basketball always made me feel a part of something," Taurasi reflected. "It brought me to a place where I could love others and myself. It really is the one thing that always loved me back." Her journey from a young, aspiring athlete to a decorated professional is a testament to her relentless passion and dedication to the sport. Taurasi’s retirement marks the end of an era for women’s basketball, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
A Career of Unrivaled Success
Taurasi’s career with the Phoenix Mercury has been nothing short of spectacular. She has won three WNBA championships, two Finals MVP awards, a regular season MVP, 11 All-Star appearances, and 10 All-WNBA First Team nods. Her prowess on the court is further highlighted by the fact that she led the WNBA in scoring five times and was named to both the 15th and 20th anniversary teams. Taurasi’s contributions to the game extend beyond her domestic achievements; overseas, she has clinched six EuroLeague titles, three Russian National League championships, and one Turkish League title. Her impressive resume speaks volumes, and she humbly remarked, "I have a resume, it’s not up to me to grade it." Her legacy is not just a series of accolades but a symbol of excellence and perseverance.
The Final Decision
In the TIME interview, Taurasi candidly discussed her decision to retire. "I just didn’t have it in me," she said, putting an end to long-standing speculation about the timing of her retirement. The mental and physical toll of a two-decade-long career has taken its toll, and Taurasi feels both full and happy with her journey. Her honest and heartfelt admission underscores the depth of her commitment to the sport and the personal sacrifices she has made to achieve her goals. The basketball community, while saddened by her departure, is also celebrating her incredible legacy and the inspiration she has provided to countless young athletes.
A Tribute from Peers and Leaders
Following Taurasi’s retirement announcement, fellow basketball icons and leaders in the sports world paid tribute to her legendary career. NBA superstar LeBron James expressed his admiration, saying, "Just seeing her transcend the game, watching little girls want to play like her, her style, her flair, her bravado, it’s been an unbelievable treat. She’s one of the all-time greatest, and she will leave her mark on the game of basketball the moment she ties those shoes up and throws them over the pole line. It’s been an honor. All love." NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also honored her, stating, "You can’t tell the story of the WNBA without Diana. She helped build the league into what it is today and inspired generations of fans and players, including many who have gone on to play in the WNBA. Diana had an outsized role in the growth of women’s basketball." The outpouring of support and respect from her peers and mentors is a clear indication of her profound impact on the sport.
An Inspiring Journey
Taurasi’s path to becoming a WNBA legend began at the University of Connecticut (UConn), where she led the Huskies to three NCAA titles. Her exceptional college career set the stage for her professional journey, and she was drafted first overall by the Phoenix Mercury. Throughout her time with the team, Taurasi’s competitive spirit and willingness to evolve have been the cornerstone of her success. "At the end of the day, the work and being able to compete, those are the things that I love the most out of anything. Those are the only things that resonate with me," she shared. Her dedication to the game has not only earned her numerous accolades but has also made her a role model for young athletes around the world.
A New Chapter
As Taurasi transitions into the next phase of her life, her focus is on her family. "That’s the question that I still don’t have an answer for. I really enjoy taking my kids to school, being home when they’re home, not leaving for a week at a time. I’m the disgruntled assistant mom coach," she joked. While her future plans remain uncertain, her commitment to her children and her family is evident. Taurasi’s retirement from basketball does not mean the end of her influence; she will continue to inspire and mentor young athletes through her values and the lessons she has learned throughout her career. Her legacy in the WNBA will be remembered and celebrated for years to come, and her impact on the sport will continue to resonate with fans and players alike.
