Diana Taurasi

Diana Taurasi, born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California, is a celebrated American professional basketball player. She is often considered one of the greatest women's basketball players in history. Taurasi began her professional career with Phoenix Mercury in 2004, after a highly successful collegiate career at the University of Connecticut. Known for her exceptional scoring, playmaking ability, and leadership, Taurasi has won numerous individual awards, including three WNBA MVP titles, and holds multiple records, such as the most points in WNBA history.

Off the court, Taurasi is also recognized for her contributions to youth basketball programs, inspiring the next generation of female athletes.

University of Connecticut

• Youth and Early Career: Taurasi had a highly successful college career at the University of Connecticut, leading the team to three consecutive NCAA championships.

Phoenix Mercury

• WNBA Success: Taurasi was selected by the Phoenix Mercury as the first overall pick in the 2004 WNBA Draft. She led the team to three WNBA championships and has been named to the All-WNBA First Team multiple times.

Russian Teams

• International Career: In addition to her WNBA career, Taurasi has also played for several teams in the Russian Women's Basketball Premier League, where she won numerous titles and MVP awards.

USA Women's National Basketball Team

• Debut: Made her debut for the USA Women's National Team in 2004.

Achievements:

• Olympic Games: Taurasi is a four-time Olympic gold medalist (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016).
• FIBA World Championship: Winner in 2010 and 2014.
• Taurasi is one of the top scorers in USA Women's National Team history.

• Position: Primarily a guard, but also excels as a forward.
• Skills: Known for her exceptional scoring, playmaking, and leadership abilities. Taurasi is celebrated for her basketball IQ, clutch performances, and competitiveness.

• Family: Taurasi is married to former basketball player Penny Taylor. They have a son together.
• Philanthropy: Taurasi is involved in various charitable activities and youth basketball programs, inspiring the next generation of female athletes.

• Diana Taurasi is celebrated not only for her extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for her commitment to promoting women's basketball. Her impact on the sport and her status as a role model extend beyond the court, inspiring millions of fans and young athletes around the world.

Most Points in WNBA History:

• Over 9000 points

Most Three-Pointers Made in WNBA History:

• Over 1100 three-pointers

Most Points in a Single WNBA Season:

• Scored 860 points in the 2006 season

Multiple WNBA Championships and Olympic Gold Medals:

• Three-time WNBA champion and four-time Olympic gold medalist

Books

• Stevens, T. (2016) Diana Taurasi: Amazing Athletes. Minneapolis: Lerner Publications.
• Shea, T. (2011) Diana Taurasi: Shooting Star. New York: Mason Crest.

Websites

• WNBA: Information about Diana Taurasi’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.wnba.com
• Phoenix Mercury: Details about Taurasi’s career at Phoenix Mercury. Available at: https://www.phoenixmercury.com
• USA Basketball: Official site with updates on Taurasi’s performance and records with the USA Women's National Team. Available at: https://www.usab.com

Articles

• ESPN: Diana Taurasi: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/29683978/diana-taurasi-career-numbers
• The Guardian: Diana Taurasi’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/diana-taurasi

Interviews and Documentaries

• ESPN Films: Diana Taurasi: The Mighty Mercury. This documentary provides a detailed look at Taurasi’s life and career, featuring interviews with her family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Diana Taurasi, covering different aspects of her career. Available at: https://www.espn.com