Taurasi pursued higher education in Sociology at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT, USA. Her father, Mario, was born in Italy and raised in Argentina, while her mother, Liliana, is a native of Argentina. This diverse background has influenced her life and career.

Professional Career

In 2004, Taurasi made her international debut competing for the United States. She was chosen by Phoenix Mercury as the number one overall pick in the 2004 WNBA Draft. She plays as a guard for Phoenix Mercury under coach Sandy Brondello and for the national team under coach Dawn Staley.

Achievements and Milestones

Taurasi's career is decorated with numerous awards and honours. She was selected for the All-WNBA First Team 11 times between 2004 and 2020. She was named USA Basketball Female Athlete of the Year four times: in 2006, 2010, 2012, and 2016. Additionally, she received the ESPY Award for Best WNBA Player in 2010, 2011, and 2012.

In 2009, Taurasi was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the WNBA and also Finals MVP. She repeated this feat in the EuroLeague Finals in 2009 and 2010. Her rookie year in 2004 saw her being named WNBA Rookie of the Year.

Personal Life

Taurasi is married to Penny Taylor, a former basketball player for Phoenix Mercury who also served as an assistant coach with the franchise. They have a son named Leo Michael Taurasi-Taylor, born in 2018. Her father played professional football as a goalkeeper.

Injuries

Throughout her career, Taurasi has faced several injuries. In 2021, she missed nine games due to a fractured sternum and suffered a hip injury that kept her out of three WNBA games before the Olympic break. She also missed most of the 2012 WNBA season due to injury.

Language Skills

Taurasi is fluent in English and Spanish, which has helped her communicate effectively both on and off the court.

International Success

Taurasi's international career is equally impressive. She became the first WNBA player to reach 9000 career points in 2021. Alongside her US teammate Sue Bird, she has the chance to become one of the first basketball players to win five Olympic gold medals at Tokyo 2020.

Influences and Inspirations

Taurasi looks up to Argentinian footballer Diego Maradona and US basketball player Magic Johnson as her idols. These figures have inspired her throughout her career.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Taurasi aims to continue contributing to basketball both on and off the court. Her dedication to the sport remains unwavering as she seeks new opportunities to excel further.

Diana Taurasi's journey is marked by numerous achievements and accolades. Her influence on basketball continues to grow as she remains an integral part of Phoenix Mercury and the US national team.