Diana Taurasi has long been considered one of the greatest to grace the WNBA hardwood, and her résumé speaks volumes. With three WNBA championships, 11 All-Star appearances, six Olympic gold medals, and the all-time leading scorer crown in league history, she’s cemented herself as a true icon of the game.
After two decades of dominance, Taurasi officially announced her retirement in February and drew the curtain on an extraordinary 20-season career.
“Mentally and physically I’m just full. That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy,” said Taurasi to Time Magazine about her retirement.
But her story is far from over. The newly released Amazon Prime documentary “Taurasi” (a three-part docuseries) is turning heads and offering fans an intimate look at the legend’s journey. One of the most touching aspects? Her family roots and the people behind her greatness.
Who Are the People Behind Diana Taurasi’s Success?
Taurasi was born on June 11, 1982, in Chino, California, and was raised in a household that blended cultures. Her mother, Liliana Taurasi, hails from Argentina, while her father, Mario Taurasi, is originally from Italy but spent much of his life in Argentina as well.
Diana Taurasi had a moment almost 25 years in the making with her parents in France today.
— The Sportsnista (@TheSportsnista) August 11, 2024
Mario Taurasi was a professional soccer player in his prime and competed for several years in Italy before he and Liliana made the life-changing decision to move to the United States. They settled in California before Diana was born, hoping to create better opportunities for their family. Taurasi also shared her childhood with her older sister, Jessika.
How Did Basketball Shape Diana Taurasi’s Personal Life?
As much as basketball defined her professional life, it also played a pivotal role in her personal happiness. In 2004, when Taurasi joined the Phoenix Mercury as the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft, she crossed paths with Penny Taylor, a fellow Mercury player from Australia. Their bond quickly grew beyond the basketball court.
After nearly a decade of dating, the couple tied the knot in May 2017, in a quiet ceremony in Phoenix, Arizona.
“Just an amazing day, one of the happiest days we’ve ever had. It would have been nice to follow it up with a win, but we’re just really happy. It was one of the times where all our families were together, all the people we love and care for in the city that we met and evolved as teammates and wives now. It’s been pretty cool,” said Taurasi about her wedding as per “The People”.
Diana Taurasi & Penny Taylor release exclusive wedding photo to @people Magazine @wnba @PhoenixMercury pic.twitter.com/S1GUrwAQT5
— STL (@stlntdot) May 16, 2017
Since then, they’ve built a beautiful life together and are proud parents to two children.
What Legacy Did Diana Taurasi Build on the Court?
Taurasi was already a force to be reckoned with at the University of Connecticut before coming to the WNBA. During her senior season in 2003-04, she averaged 16.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.9 assists. That season, she led the UConn Huskies to a 31-4 record and helped them win their third straight NCAA title.
In the WNBA, Taurasi went on to average 18.8 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds across 565 regular-season games with the Phoenix Mercury. As her documentary “Taurasi” reveals, her journey was never just about stats or titles. It was about legacy: showing young players what’s possible when talent meets determination and the unwavering support of family.
