Diana Taurasi Net Worth: The Legend Who Redefined Women’s Basketball
When we talk about basketball greatness, one name that always stands out is Diana Taurasi. She’s not just a player; she’s a force, a trailblazer, and one of the most electrifying athletes to ever step onto the hardwood. From dominating the WNBA to ruling European courts and even securing multiple Olympic gold medals, Taurasi’s career is nothing short of legendary.
As of 2025, Taurasi is 42 years old, still making waves in the sport, and has amassed an estimated net worth of $3.5 million. She’s earned this through her stellar WNBA career, overseas contracts, and endorsement deals. Let’s take a deep dive into her incredible journey, from her early years to becoming a global icon in basketball.
Early Life and the Making of a Superstar
Born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California, Diana Taurasi grew up in Chino, California with her older sister, Jessika. Her basketball DNA was evident from the start, thanks to her athletic roots. Her father, Mario Taurasi, was originally from Argentina and played professional soccer in Italy before moving to the United States with Diana’s mother, Liliana.
Even before she was a household name, Taurasi was making waves on the high school basketball scene. She attended Don Antonio Lugo High School, where her skills were undeniable. She won the Cheryl Miller Award in 2000, was named Parade Magazine’s National High School Player of the Year, and finished as one of California’s top scorers ever. College scouts took notice, and she eventually committed to playing for one of the most elite programs in women’s basketball: the University of Connecticut (UConn).
College Career at UConn: Dominating the NCAA
At UConn, Taurasi didn’t just play—she dominated. Under the legendary coach Geno Auriemma, she led the Huskies to three consecutive NCAA Championships from 2002 to 2004. Her clutch performances and leadership earned her multiple awards, including:
- NCAA Tournament MVP
- 2003 and 2004 Honda Sports Awards
- 2003 Associated Press Player of the Year
By the time she left UConn, she had cemented her reputation as one of the greatest college players ever. She wasn’t just winning games; she was making basketball look effortless.
WNBA Career: A Legacy with the Phoenix Mercury
The 2004 WNBA Draft had no surprises—Diana Taurasi was the #1 overall pick, selected by the Phoenix Mercury. Her impact was immediate. In her rookie season, she averaged 17 points per game and won the WNBA Rookie of the Year Award. Though the Mercury didn’t make the playoffs that year, it was clear they had found their franchise star.
Her first WNBA championship came in 2007, making her the seventh player ever to win an NCAA title, a WNBA title, and an Olympic gold medal. She wasn’t done, though. Taurasi and the Mercury went on to win two more championships in 2009 and 2014. Along the way, she collected a long list of records and accolades, including:
- WNBA MVP (2009)
- WNBA Finals MVP (2009)
- WNBA scoring champion (five times!)
- WNBA all-time leading scorer (2017)
- First player to reach 10,000 career points (2023)
Even as she aged, her game never slowed down. She signed a multi-year contract extension in 2017, proving that she was still an elite player in the league. Injuries have occasionally slowed her down, but every time, she’s bounced back stronger.
European Stardom: Big Paydays & Championships
While Taurasi was shining in the WNBA, she was also crushing it overseas, where women’s basketball players often earn significantly higher salaries. She played in Russia and Turkey, making millions per season. From 2006 to 2010, she led Spartak Moscow to four straight EuroLeague titles.
In 2015, Russian club UMMC Ekaterinburg paid her a seven-figure salary to skip the WNBA season and rest, ensuring she would be at full strength for their team in Europe. That’s how valuable she was! She finally retired from European play in 2017, leaving behind an incredible international legacy.
Olympic Gold & USA Basketball Dominance
When it comes to representing Team USA, Taurasi has been nothing short of phenomenal. She played in five Olympic Games—2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2021—winning gold every single time. Her ability to step up in the biggest moments made her one of the most trusted veterans on the national team.
She also won multiple FIBA World Championships, proving that her dominance wasn’t limited to just professional leagues. When Team USA needed a leader, Taurasi was always ready to deliver.
Personal Life: Family & Marriage
Behind every great athlete is a solid support system, and for Diana Taurasi, that has always been her wife, Penny Taylor. The two first met as teammates on the Phoenix Mercury and developed a strong bond that turned into a lifelong partnership. After eight years of dating, they tied the knot on May 13, 2017.
Their love story only got better when they welcomed their first child, Leo Michael Taurasi-Taylor, in March 2018. Then, in October 2021, Taurasi had one of the most unforgettable nights of her life. She played a do-or-die Game 5 to lead the Mercury to the WNBA Finals and then rushed to the hospital just in time to see the birth of their daughter. Talk about a clutch performance!
Salary & Net Worth: The Business of Being Diana Taurasi
While WNBA salaries have historically been lower than their NBA counterparts, Taurasi has still managed to build a solid fortune. As of 2025, she earns a WNBA salary of $234,000, but when playing overseas, she could easily pull in $1 million+ per season.
Her endorsement deals with brands like Nike have also contributed to her wealth. Her estimated net worth now stands at $3.5 million, proving that she’s not just a legend on the court but also a smart businesswoman.
Taurasi’s Everlasting Impact on Basketball
Diana Taurasi’s legacy is bigger than just stats and championships—she has changed the game for women’s basketball. Whether it was shattering records, winning titles, or mentoring the next generation, she has done it all with grit, confidence, and an undeniable passion for the sport.
Even as she enters the later stages of her career, her impact remains unmatched. From high school standout to college legend, WNBA icon, and global superstar, Taurasi’s journey is one that will inspire generations of athletes to come.
No matter when she decides to hang up her jersey, one thing is for sure: Diana Taurasi’s name will forever be written in the history books of basketball.
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