Diana Taurasi, born on June 11, 1982, in Glendale, California, has etched her name in basketball history as one of the most accomplished and influential players in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). As of 2025, at 42 years old, Taurasi’s net worth is estimated to be between $3.5 million and $5 million, reflecting her earnings from a prolific basketball career and various endorsements.
Early Life and Basketball Beginnings
Raised in Chino, California, Taurasi is the daughter of Mario and Liliana Taurasi, both hailing from Argentina. Her father, Mario, played professional soccer in Italy before relocating to the United States. Diana’s basketball journey commenced at Don Antonio Lugo High School, where her exceptional talent earned her the Cheryl Miller Award in 2000 and recognition as the “Parade Magazine” National High School Player of the Year.
Continuing her basketball trajectory, Taurasi attended the University of Connecticut. She led the Huskies to three consecutive NCAA championships from 2002 to 2004. Her collegiate performance garnered numerous accolades, including the Naismith College Player of the Year awards in 2003 and 2004.
Professional Career and Achievements
In 2004, Taurasi was the first overall pick in the WNBA Draft, selected by the Phoenix Mercury. She spent her entire 20-season career with the Mercury, leading the team to three WNBA championships in 2007, 2009, and 2014. Her individual accolades include the WNBA Rookie of the Year award in 2004, a league MVP in 2009, and two Finals MVP honors. In August 2023, Taurasi became the first player in WNBA history to surpass 10,000 career points. She announced her retirement from professional basketball on February 25, 2025, expressing fulfillment both mentally and physically.
Earnings and Net Worth
Throughout her WNBA tenure, Taurasi’s earnings were modest compared to her male counterparts in the NBA. Her most recent contract, signed in February 2023, was a two-year deal with the Phoenix Mercury worth $469,872, averaging an annual salary of $234,936.
spotrac.com Over her WNBA career, her total earnings approximated $1.15 million.
To supplement her income, Taurasi played overseas, where salaries were substantially higher. Notably, her stints with Russian teams, including UMMC Ekaterinburg, reportedly earned her over $1 million per season.
essentiallysports.com These international engagements significantly bolstered her net worth, which, as of 2024, was estimated at $3.5 million.
Endorsements and Investments
Beyond her on-court earnings, Taurasi secured various endorsement deals that enhanced her financial standing. She signed with Nike in 2014 and collaborated with LeBron James to release a signature sneaker in October 2024. Other endorsements included partnerships with BodyArmor, reportedly earning her $1.35 million, as well as deals with Coca-Cola, State Farm, Waymo, DeloitteUS, Twelvebooks, Togetherx, Cox Communications, and JBL.
In terms of investments, Taurasi expressed interest in sports ownership post-retirement. In November 2022, she invested in TMRW Sports as part of a SeedVc funding round, indicating her proactive approach to securing her financial future beyond her playing days.
Personal Life
Taurasi’s personal life has been intertwined with basketball. She married former teammate Penny Taylor on May 13, 2017, after eight years of dating. The couple has two children: a son, Leo Michael Taurasi-Taylor, born in March 2018, and a daughter born in October 2021. Taurasi has expressed a desire to focus on family life following her retirement, looking forward to spending quality time with her children and taking a well-deserved break from professional play.
Legacy and Impact
Diana Taurasi’s career has left an indelible mark on women’s basketball. Her competitive spirit, scoring ability, and leadership have inspired countless athletes and contributed to the growth and popularity of the WNBA. As she transitions into retirement, Taurasi’s legacy continues to influence the next generation of basketball players, and her financial prudence serves as a model for athletes navigating their careers both on and off the court.