Early Life and Education of Diana Taurasi: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Diana Taurasi, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Diana Taurasi is a celebrated American former professional basketball player, renowned as one of the greatest in WNBA history. She spent her entire 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury. Taurasi gained prominence during her college years at the University of Connecticut, where she led the team to an impressive three consecutive NCAA championships, solidifying her legacy in women's basketball.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

June 11, 1982: Diana Taurasi's birth

On June 11, 1982, Diana Lorena Taurasi was born. She would later become a professional basketball player for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA and is widely regarded as one of the greatest women's basketball players.

Others born on this day/year

1999: Ms. Basketball State Player of the Year

In 1999, Diana Taurasi was recognized as the Ms. Basketball State Player of the Year.

2000: Enrolled at the University of Connecticut

In 2000, Diana Taurasi enrolled at the University of Connecticut (UConn) and began playing for the women's basketball team.

2000: Graduation from High School

In 2000, Diana Taurasi graduated from Don Antonio Lugo High School and enrolled at the University of Connecticut.

2001: Final Four loss

In 2001, after a poor shooting performance in UConn's Final Four loss to Notre Dame, Taurasi vowed, "We will not lose another tournament game while I'm wearing this uniform." They proceeded to win three straight national titles.

2003: College Player of the Year Awards

In 2003, Diana Taurasi received the Naismith College Player of the Year award, the Wade Trophy, the Honda Sports Award, and the Associated Press Player of the Year award.

2004: Attended at the University of Connecticut

In 2004, Diana Taurasi continued to attended at the University of Connecticut

2004: Naismith College Player of the Year Award

In 2004, Diana Taurasi received the Naismith College Player of the Year award and the Honda Sports Award.

2005: Earns Bachelor's Degree

In 2005, Diana Taurasi earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut, emphasizing its importance to her.

2006: Inducted into Huskies of Honor

In 2006, Diana Taurasi was a member of the inaugural class of inductees to the University of Connecticut women's basketball "Huskies of Honor" recognition program.

2012: Injury-Riddled Season

In 2012, Diana Taurasi had an injury-riddled season, playing only eight games due to a strained left hip flexor, and the Mercury finished the season with a poor record.

February 3, 2015: Sitting out 2015 WNBA season

On February 3, 2015, Diana Taurasi announced that she would sit out the 2015 WNBA season at the request of her Russian Premier League team, UMMC Ekaterinburg, for a higher salary.

May 13, 2017: Taurasi Marries Penny Taylor

On May 13, 2017, Diana Taurasi married her former teammate Penny Taylor, who was the Phoenix Mercury Director of Player Development and Performance at the time, after eight years of dating.

March 1, 2018: Birth of First Child

On March 1, 2018, Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor welcomed their first child, a son.

August 23, 2020: Season-High 34 Points while Honoring Kobe Bryant

On August 23, 2020, Diana Taurasi scored a season-high 34 points in an 88–87 victory over the Washington Mystics. She honored the late Kobe Bryant on his birthday by wearing number 8 along with his last name on her jersey.