Diana Taurasi, a Phoenix Mercury star, made WNBA history Thursday night when she scored her 10,000th career point, becoming the first WNBA player to reach this remarkable milestone. The 41-year-old, who has been a cornerstone of the Phoenix franchise since being drafted first in 2004 out of UConn, is also the career regular-season scoring leader and holds that mark in the playoffs. With a net worth estimated at $3 million, Taurasi continues to be a dominant force in basketball. However, Taurasi isn’t the only basketball star in her family; she is married to former WNBA player Penny Taylor, who has had an illustrious career herself. This article delves into the details of Taylor’s career, their relationship, and their family life.
Who is Diana Taurasi’s Wife, Penny Taylor?
Penny Taylor is a celebrated figure in the world of basketball, having been inducted into the WNBA Hall of Fame last year. Taylor’s career spanned 19 years, most of which she spent with the Phoenix Mercury, where she won three championships. She was selected 11th in the 2001 WNBA draft by the Cleveland Rockers. When that team folded in 2003, Taylor joined the Mercury and played a crucial role in their championship victories in 2007, 2009, and 2014.
Taylor’s impressive career is not limited to the WNBA. She represented the Australian national team, the Opals, in three Olympics: Athens 2004 (Silver), Beijing 2008 (Silver), and Rio 2016. Taylor retired in 2016, having averaged 13.3 points over her 13-year WNBA career, and her contributions to the sport were recognized with her Hall of Fame induction.
How Did Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor Meet?
Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor met in 2004 on their first day of training with the Phoenix Mercury. Despite this initial meeting, they did not start dating immediately. Both were involved in previous relationships during their time as teammates. Taylor was married to Brazilian volleyball player Rodrigo Rodrigues Gil from 2005 until 2008.
Their relationship took a romantic turn after Taylor retired in 2016. The bond they had developed over years of playing together blossomed into love, and they tied the knot in 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. Taurasi wore a white suit while Taylor stunned in a strapless white gown, making their wedding day a memorable and beautiful occasion.
When Did Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor Start Their Family?
Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor have two children together. They welcomed their first child, a son named Leo Michael, in March 2018. Taylor gave birth to their second child, a daughter named Isla, in October 2021. The birth of their daughter was particularly memorable as Taurasi had to rush back immediately after the Mercury’s deciding Game 5 of their semifinal series against the Las Vegas Aces. Taurasi had scored 24 points in the 87-84 win and humorously told Taylor during her postgame interview with ESPN, “Hold it in, babe.”
What Are Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor’s Net Worth and Ages?
As of 2024, Diana Taurasi has an estimated net worth of $3 million. At 41 years old, Taurasi continues to be a pivotal figure in the WNBA, showcasing her enduring talent and passion for the game. Penny Taylor, on the other hand, has a net worth estimated at around $2 million. At 42 years old, Taylor’s legacy in basketball, both in the WNBA and international competitions, remains influential.
How Do They Balance Their Professional and Personal Lives?
Balancing professional and personal lives is a challenge for any couple, but Taurasi and Taylor have managed it with grace and dedication. Both have been supportive of each other’s careers and personal endeavors. Taylor’s retirement in 2016 allowed her to take on a more supportive role in Taurasi’s ongoing career, particularly during significant milestones like Taurasi’s 10,000th career point.
Their shared love for basketball has undoubtedly strengthened their bond, providing a unique understanding and appreciation for each other’s careers. Despite the demands of their professional lives, Taurasi and Taylor prioritize their family, ensuring that their children, Leo and Isla, are raised in a loving and supportive environment.
What’s Next for Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor?
As Diana Taurasi continues her historic career, breaking records and setting new milestones, she remains focused on leading the Phoenix Mercury to more victories. Penny Taylor, now retired from professional basketball, may continue to contribute to the sport in other capacities, such as coaching or mentorship.
Their future together looks bright, both professionally and personally. With a strong foundation built on mutual respect, love, and a shared passion for basketball, Taurasi and Taylor are poised to navigate whatever challenges and opportunities come their way.
In conclusion, Diana Taurasi’s historic achievement of scoring 10,000 career points is a testament to her dedication and talent. Alongside her remarkable career, her relationship with Penny Taylor adds a beautiful personal narrative to her professional success. Together, they exemplify the power of love, partnership, and shared ambition.
