“If you’re great at what you do, you will adjust and evolve.” That’s the advice Diana Taurasi shared for new players stepping onto the big stage of the WNBA, where they are bound to face fierce competition and often tough physicality. This statement not only highlights Taurasi’s own tenacity but also underscores her willingness to engage in physical battles on the court. Adding to this, recent comments from a part-owner of the Atlanta Dream, who once competed against Taurasi, further affirm the Mercury legend’s reputation for her strong, physical style of play.

Recently, Renee Montgomery, co-owner of the Atlanta Dream, made an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, where the conversation turned to the intense rivalries that often define the game. When given the opportunity to discuss the commonality of physical play and competitive tension on the court, Montgomery couldn’t help but share her experiences battling against Taurasi.

“Anybody that’s played against Diana Taurasi you know, you already know, she probably gave half the league their ‘welcome to the league’ moment. Like that’s just this woman by herself, she gave me mine you know. It’s like you know here when you catch a bow by Diana or she hits you with an elbow and shoots it, they call the foul on you and she makes it you know ‘you in the league,'” stated Montgomery. 

Montgomery, who retired from the WNBA in 2019, entered the league in 2009—right around the time DT was leading the Phoenix Mercury to their first championship. Reflecting on Taurasi’s fierce demeanor, Montgomery shared, “You have players like Diana who are forever going to be that one that ‘she don’t care’. Like there’s certain players. She will give you hugs and kisses before the game and knock your teeth out during the game. That is my true story that is my testimony.” 

Well, Montgomery’s words mirrors this season stats, as Taurasi had found herself in the spotlight for her aggressive style of play, tying with Chennedy Carter for the most flagrant fouls. One memorable moment occurred during a game in August when she made headlines for shoving Allisha Gray. With less than four minutes remaining, officials called Taurasi for a flagrant foul after her push sent Gray tumbling out of bounds. However, they later decided to revoke the foul call.

While we may have seen the last of the White Mamba showcasing her signature gritty and physical style on the court, it’s still uncertain when exactly that retirement will come.

Diana Taurasi’s future retirement in limbo

“I know the end is near. When that is, I don’t know.” Diana Taurasi shared, sending ripples of concern after playing the Phoenix Mercury’s final regular-season game at the Footprint Center. Speculation about her retirement had already begun following her triumphant sixth Olympic gold medal win, but the close of the season only intensified those conversations.

During her last game at the Footprint Center this year, the atmosphere felt particularly poignant, with coach Nate Tibbetts calling her onto the court in the final minutes. Taurasi took a moment to acknowledge the fans, making it all the more emotional and leaving many to wonder if this truly was her farewell. However, recent report from ESPN suggests hat the 3x WNBA Champion “is still mulling over her decision whether to play another season in the WNBA or retire.”

Taurasi quoted in the report, read, “I have not taken it lightly. I think about it every day. You know, I’m still in deep thought about it. I want to make the right decision, you know, and I’m just taking my time a little bit. And you know, sometimes when the season ends, the last thing you want to think about is the next season.”  With Taurasi herself uncertain about her future ahead of next season, it’s anyone’s guess whether she’ll choose to retire. However, one thing does seem clear: she may be staying with the Mercury for the long haul.