Diana Taurasi is a name that stands among the greats in basketball history. Known for her fiery competitive spirit, clutch performances, and unmatched skills, she has earned the nickname “White Mamba,” a tribute from the late Kobe Bryant. From dominating the WNBA to becoming an Olympic champion, Taurasi’s career is filled with remarkable achievements.
Let’s take a closer look at her life, career, stats, net worth, and fascinating facts about this basketball icon.
Diana Taurasi Biography
Diana Lorena Taurasi was born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California.
She grew up in Chino, California, where she developed a deep love for basketball. Her father, Mario Taurasi, was an Italian-born professional soccer player in Argentina, and her mother, Liliana Taurasi, is originally from Argentina.
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Taurasi’s talent was evident from a young age. She attended Don Antonio Lugo High School, where she led her basketball team to state championships and earned the Naismith High School Player of the Year Award.
Her incredible skills earned her a scholarship to the University of Connecticut (UConn), where she played under legendary coach Geno Auriemma. Taurasi became a college basketball sensation, leading UConn to three consecutive NCAA championships (2002, 2003, 2004) and winning the Naismith College Player of the Year Award.
Diana Taurasi’s Wife and Children
Diana Taurasi married Penny Taylor, a former WNBA player and Phoenix Mercury executive, in 2017. Their partnership is not just a celebration of shared passions for basketball but also a true meeting of kindred spirits who understand the dedication required to excel at the highest levels of the sport.
Together, Diana and Penny have created a warm and loving home for their family. They have two children: a son, born in 2018, and a daughter, born in 2021.
Despite the demanding nature of professional sports and the public spotlight that often accompanies it, Diana remains dedicated to balancing her career with her family life. She frequently speaks about the importance of family, emphasizing that her children are her greatest inspiration and the foundation of her strength both on and off the court.
Their journey as a family reflects a modern and progressive approach to life and love in the world of professional sports. Diana’s openness about her family life has inspired many fans and fellow athletes alike, highlighting that success in sports does not come at the expense of personal happiness and family fulfillment.
Diana Taurasi Body Measurements
Diana Taurasi’s athletic build and height have been crucial to her success on the court.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’0” (183 cm) |
| Weight | 163 lbs (74 kg) |
| Position | Guard |
| Shoe Size | 12 (US) |
| Wingspan | 6’2” |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
Her height, agility, and strong frame have allowed her to dominate both the point guard and shooting guard positions, making her one of the most versatile players in WNBA history.
Career Stats & Achievements
Diana Taurasi was drafted 1st overall by the Phoenix Mercury in the 2004 WNBA Draft. Since then, she has set numerous records and solidified herself as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
WNBA Career Highlights
- WNBA Championships: 3 (2007, 2009, 2014)
- WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP): 2009
- WNBA Finals MVP: 2 (2009, 2014)
- WNBA All-Star Selections: 11
- All-WNBA First Team: 10 times
- WNBA Scoring Titles: 5 (2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011)
- WNBA All-Time Leading Scorer: 10,646 points
Olympic and International Success
Taurasi is not only a WNBA legend but also one of the most decorated Olympic athletes in basketball history.
- Olympic Gold Medals: 6 (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020, 2024)
- FIBA World Cup Titles: 3 (2010, 2014, 2018)
Her global impact on basketball has been undeniable, inspiring young players around the world.
Retirement
In February 2025, Diana Taurasi officially announced her retirement from professional basketball at the age of 42. She played an unbelievable 20 seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, a record-breaking career that inspired generations of basketball players.
“I feel mentally and physically full,” Taurasi said in her retirement statement. “I gave everything I had to the game, and I’m leaving with no regrets.”
Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy will live on forever. Taurasi changed the game, broke records, and set a new standard for future WNBA players.
Diana Taurasi Net Worth
As of 2025, Diana Taurasi’s estimated net worth is $3.5 million.
Sources of Income:
- WNBA Salary: Taurasi has earned millions throughout her 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury.
- Overseas Contracts: Like many WNBA stars, she played internationally during the WNBA off-season, earning up to $1.5 million per season in Russia and Turkey.
- Endorsements: She has signed deals with major brands, including Nike and BodyArmor.
- Signature Shoe: In October 2024, Taurasi released her first signature sneaker, Nike LeBron NXXT Gen AMPD PE, in collaboration with LeBron James.
Despite her wealth, Taurasi has remained humble and committed to growing women’s basketball.
Fun & Interesting Facts About Diana Taurasi
- The “White Mamba” Connection: The late Kobe Bryant nicknamed her “White Mamba” because of her killer instinct and clutch performances.
- WNBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer: In 2017, she surpassed Tina Thompson to become the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer.
- Appeared in Space Jam: She had a cameo as the character “White Mamba” in the 2021 film Space Jam: A New Legacy starring LeBron James.
- Famous for Her Trash Talk: Taurasi is known for her fiery personality and sharp trash talk, often intimidating opponents with her confidence.
Diana Taurasi’s career is one of the most legendary in basketball history. From UConn dominance to WNBA championships and Olympic gold medals, she has done it all.
Her unmatched skill, passion, and leadership have cemented her as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Whether it’s scoring buckets, winning championships, or inspiring the next generation, Taurasi will always be remembered as the GOAT of women’s basketball.
Thank you, Diana Taurasi, for an incredible career!
