“I know the end is near. When that is, I don’t know.” Diana Taurasi expressed, sending a wave of concern after playing the Phoenix Mercury’s final regular-season game at the Footprint Center. While speculation about her retirement had already begun following her sixth Olympic gold medal victory, the conclusion of the season heightened the discussions. Nevertheless, she recently provided an update on her future, indicating that while she may not clarify her retirement plans, she intends to maintain a long-term connection with the Mercury.

The latest report from ESPN has surfaced suggesting that 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.” 

During her final home game of the season, she stated that her immediate focus was on the upcoming first-round matchup against the Seattle Storm. Once the season concluded, she planned to take time to discuss her future decisions with her loved ones, as she didn’t want to make any announcements in the heat of the moment. Taurasi later faced elimination after Minnesota Lynx swept away Phoenix Mercury by 2-0 in the first round.

While Taurasi isn’t ready to clarify her plans for the upcoming season, she feels impressed by last season’s additions to the Mercury, including Natasha Cloud and Kahleah Copper, which could enhance the team’s championship prospects next year.

Regardless of whether she decides to retire, she intends to maintain a long-term relationship with the franchise and has conveyed her message to team owner Mat Ishbia.

Diana Taurasi drops ownership hints for the future

“I definitely love the idea of being able to have a position where obviously you influence a team. But more than that, just being around [owner Mat Ishbia] for a little bit, just seeing how he’s influenced this whole city and change the energy of what an owner can do to really the outlook of a city, the feeling of a city. The things to which he’s done with the team, it’s really the next step, I think, for female athletes,” Taurasi told ESPN.

Since Ishbia took ownership of the Mercury in early 2023, the veteran player has expressed her admiration for his dedication and efforts toward the franchise’s future. Additionally, following his appointment, the Mercury revealed a new 58,000-square-foot practice facility inspired by Diana Taurasi. This $100 million training center features courts adorned with Taurasi’s name and logo, marking a significant milestone for the team.

Therefore, Taurasi has much to consider regarding her retirement decision, given the affection and support she has received from both fans and the franchise. Over her 20-year career, she has led the Mercury to three championships and earned two Finals MVP awards. As Diana Taurasi contemplates her future, her legacy with the Mercury remains undeniable. Regardless of her decision, her impact on the franchise and the sport will resonate for years to come.