Diana Taurasi, a name synonymous with excellence in women’s basketball, boasts an impressive net worth of $3.5 million. Her career, marked by numerous accolades and a relentless drive, has made her a household name in the WNBA and beyond. From her early life in California to her record-breaking achievements on the court, Taurasi’s journey is a testament to talent, hard work, and resilience.
Early Life: The Foundation of a Star
Diana Taurasi was born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California. She grew up in Chino, California, with her older sister, Jessika. Her father, Mario, originally from Argentina, played professional soccer in Italy, while her mother, Liliana, also from Argentina, emigrated to the United States before Diana was born.
Taurasi attended Don Antonio Lugo High School, where her basketball talents were evident. She was awarded the Cheryl Miller Award in 2000 and was named the “Parade Magazine” National High School Player of the Year the same year. Her high school career was illustrious, ranking fourth in California state history in terms of overall scoring and earning the MVP title in the WBCA High School All-America Game.
College Career: A UConn Legend
After high school, Taurasi enrolled at the University of Connecticut (UConn), leading the team to three consecutive NCAA championships. During her college years, she received numerous accolades, including the 2003 and 2004 Honda Sports Awards and the 2003 Associated Press Player of the Year. Her performances made her a revered figure in Connecticut, earning admiration from state senator Thomas Gaffey.
Professional Career: Dominance in the WNBA
Draft and Early Years
In 2004, Taurasi was selected first overall in the WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury. She made an immediate impact, averaging 17 points per game in her rookie season and winning the WNBA Rookie of the Year Award. Despite her efforts, the Mercury did not qualify for the playoffs that year.
Breakthrough and Championships
Taurasi’s career flourished under coach Paul Westhead in 2006, where she led the league in scoring and set a record for points in a single season. Her partnership with star players like Cappie Pondexter and Penny Taylor propelled the Mercury to their first WNBA Championship in 2007. Taurasi’s performances were pivotal, earning her the WNBA Finals MVP.
The Mercury returned to the finals in 2009, winning again with Taurasi named the finals MVP. She became one of only two players to win a season-scoring title, season MVP award, a WNBA Championship, and the finals MVP in the same season.
Continued Success and Records
Taurasi has remained with the Mercury throughout her WNBA career. Despite injuries in 2012, she made a strong comeback, leading the team to the playoffs in subsequent seasons. In 2017, she became the first player in league history to reach 7,000 points, 1,500 rebounds, and 1,500 assists. She further solidified her legacy by becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer.
Overseas Ventures
Taurasi also had a successful career overseas, playing for Russian and Turkish teams. Her time with UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia was particularly notable, although she eventually retired from European competition in 2017.
Personal Life: Love and Family
Diana Taurasi’s personal life is as remarkable as her career. After eight years of dating, she married Penny Taylor, a former teammate and the Phoenix Mercury Director of Player Development and Performance, on May 13, 2017. The couple welcomed their first son, Leo Michael Taurasi-Taylor, in March 2018.
In October 2021, Taylor was due to give birth to their second child, a daughter. Taurasi faced a dramatic situation where she had to leave to play a crucial Game 5 for the WNBA finals but managed to return in time for the birth of their daughter, showcasing her commitment to both her family and her career.
Salary and Endorsements
Diana Taurasi earns the WNBA’s top salary, which as of this writing, is $221,000. When she plays overseas for teams in Russia, she can earn over $1 million for a single season. These earnings, combined with her endorsements and accolades, contribute significantly to her net worth.
Legacy and Impact
Diana Taurasi’s legacy is not just about her records and championships. It is about her influence on the game of basketball, her role as a pioneer for women in sports, and her impact off the court. She continues to inspire young athletes with her determination, skill, and grace under pressure.
Conclusion
Diana Taurasi’s life and career reflect a journey of unparalleled success and resilience. From her early days in California to becoming a global basketball icon, she has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her story is one of triumph, dedication, and an enduring legacy that will inspire generations to come.