Early Life and Education of Diana Taurasi: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 4, 2026

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

Diana Taurasi is an American-Argentine former professional basketball player, widely regarded as one of the greatest in women's basketball history. Spending her entire 20-season WNBA career with the Phoenix Mercury, she holds the league's all-time scoring record. Taurasi is also the most decorated Olympic athlete in any team sport, having won six Olympic gold medals with the United States women's national basketball team. Her impact on the WNBA is immense, credited with significantly boosting the league's visibility and overall standard of play.

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, an American-Argentine former professional basketball player, was born. She is regarded as one of the greatest in women's basketball history.

Others born on this day/year

1999: Ms. Basketball State Player of the Year

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

2000: Enrolls at UConn

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

2000: High School Accolades

In 2000, Diana Taurasi graduated from Don Antonio Lugo High School and received the Cheryl Miller Award and was named Ms. Basketball State Player of the Year, Naismith and Parade Magazine National High School Player of the Year. She also participated in the 2000 WBCA High School All-America Game, earning MVP honors.

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: Naismith College Player of the Year Award

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

2005: Earns Bachelor's Degree from UConn

In 2005, after a break to enter the WNBA draft and play in the Olympics, Diana Taurasi earned her bachelor's degree from UConn. She considered her college degree as important as any championship ring or gold medal, being the first in her family to graduate from college.

May 13, 2017: Taurasi Marries Penny Taylor

On May 13, 2017, Diana Taurasi married her former teammate Penny Taylor.

March 1, 2018: Taylor Gives Birth to Couple's Son

On March 1, 2018, Penny Taylor gave birth to the couple's son, marking a new chapter in their lives.

August 23, 2020: Taurasi Scores Season-High While Honoring Kobe Bryant

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

October 6, 2021: Taylor's Second Child Due Date

On October 6, 2021, Penny Taylor was expected to give birth to the couple's second child.

October 8, 2021: Taurasi Plays in Game 5 After Semifinals Loss

On October 8, 2021, Diana Taurasi played in a winner-take-all Game 5 after a Game 4 loss in the semifinals, with a message for Penny Taylor during her pregnancy.

October 9, 2021: Taurasi Witnesses Daughter's Birth

On October 9, 2021, Diana Taurasi witnessed Penny Taylor give birth to their daughter, Isla Taurasi-Taylor, after flying from Las Vegas following a Game 5 win.