Diana Taurasi's retirement marks the end of an era in basketball. Her journey, spanning over 20 seasons in the WNBA, three league championships, and more than 10,000 points, is a testament to her unparalleled skill and dedication.

Early Days and First Impressions

Sue Bird, a close friend and longtime USA Basketball teammate, recalls the first time she met Taurasi during her UConn recruiting trip. "The minute you meet Diana, there is an impact," Bird said. "You feel the charisma."

The Competitor

Sophie Cunningham, Taurasi's Phoenix Mercury teammate, admired her competitive spirit. "There's a lot of times in games when, if I was going against her, I'd hate her," Cunningham said. "She's just stubborn. She's an a--hole. The way she plays is physical."

The Teammate and Mentor

Tina Charles, another UConn graduate and former Olympic teammate, shared a memorable story from their time playing for Galatasaray in Istanbul. Taurasi stayed with her in the gym for hours, ensuring Charles could make 10 consecutive free throws.

The Friend and Family Woman

Off the court, Taurasi's warmth and generosity were evident. Rebekkah Brunson, former WNBA player, noted, "She makes everyone feel like they're the most important person to her when she meets them."

Legacy

As Taurasi steps away from professional basketball, her legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game is secure. Her impact on the sport, her teammates, and fans will be remembered for generations.