Stephen A's Take: Diana Taurasi is a G.O.A.T.

Summary

The Stephen A. Smith Show: Stephen A's Take on Diana Taurasi as a G.O.A.T.

Release Date: February 28, 2025

In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into the illustrious career of Diana Taurasi, culminating in her well-deserved recognition as one of the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T.) in women's basketball. Through insightful discussions and expert opinions, the episode celebrates Taurasi's monumental impact on the sport and her enduring legacy.

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1. Introduction to Diana Taurasi's Retirement

The episode opens with heartfelt acknowledgments of Diana Taurasi's retirement from the WNBA after an impressive 20-season career. Stephen A. Smith sets the stage by highlighting Taurasi's status as the WNBA's all-time leading scorer and her unparalleled contributions to basketball.

2. Celebrating Taurasi's Achievements

Stephen A. Smith meticulously breaks down Taurasi's remarkable resume, emphasizing her numerous accolades and milestones:

• Championships and MVPs:

  • "Three-time WNBA Champion, two-time WNBA Finals MVP" ([02:00])

• College and Olympic Success:

  • "Three-time NCAA Champion, two-time NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, six-time Olympic Gold Medalist" ([02:10])

• Personal Accolades:

  • "2009 WNBA MVP, two-time Naismith College Basketball Player of the Year, 14-time All WNBA, 10-time First Team" ([02:20])

Stephen underscores the sheer volume of Taurasi's achievements, marveling at her consistent performance and dedication to the game.

3. Expert Insights with Daniel Jeremiah

Joining Stephen A. is esteemed sports analyst Daniel Jeremiah, who offers an in-depth perspective on Taurasi's career and her standing as a G.O.A.T.:

• Personal Admiration:
  • "Diana Taurasi, the White Mamba. One of the best people that I've ever covered in professional sports. Just a straight shooter, very authentic, you know, highly competitive, a winner on every level." ([02:52])

Daniel emphasizes Taurasi's authenticity and competitiveness, painting a picture of a player who not only excelled on the court but also influenced those around her positively.

• Impact on the Game:
  • "The game is going to miss her. Thank you for all that you've done for the game. Diana Taurasi. You are something special, make no mistake about that." ([03:15])

He reflects on Taurasi's profound impact on basketball, asserting that her absence will be deeply felt across the sport.

4. The Era of Greatness

Stephen A. and Daniel Jeremiah discuss the broader context of Taurasi's career, positioning her within the pantheon of basketball legends. They compare her leadership, skill, and longevity to other all-time greats, solidifying her status as a G.O.A.T.

• Legacy and Inspiration:
  • Stephen A. highlights how Taurasi's work ethic and passion have inspired countless young athletes, both female and male, to pursue excellence in basketball.

5. Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

The episode concludes with a unanimous agreement on Diana Taurasi's exceptional career and her rightful place among the greatest athletes of all time. Stephen A. Smith and Daniel Jeremiah celebrate her achievements, legacy, and the indelible mark she leaves on the world of sports.

• Final Tribute:
  • "You really are something special, make no mistake about that." ([03:30])

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Notable Quotes

• Daniel Jeremiah on Taurasi's Authenticity:

  • "Just a straight shooter, very authentic, you know, highly competitive, a winner on every level." ([02:52])

• Stephen A. on Taurasi's Resume:

  • "Who the hell has a resume like that? Who's this person?" ([02:05])

• Daniel Jeremiah on Taurasi's Impact:

  • "The game is going to miss her. Thank you for all that you've done for the game." ([03:15])

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Key Takeaways

• Unmatched Career Achievements: Diana Taurasi's extensive list of championships, MVPs, and personal accolades underscores her dominance in women's basketball.

• Influential Legacy: Beyond statistics, Taurasi's leadership and authenticity have left a lasting impression on the sport and inspired future generations.

• Recognition as a G.O.A.T.: Both Stephen A. Smith and Daniel Jeremiah acknowledge Taurasi's rightful place among the greatest athletes, celebrating her incredible career and enduring legacy.

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This episode serves as a heartfelt homage to Diana Taurasi, celebrating her extraordinary journey and unwavering excellence in basketball. For fans and newcomers alike, The Stephen A. Smith Show offers a comprehensive and engaging tribute to one of the sport's most legendary figures.

Transcript

[Talkspace]

This podcast is sponsored by Talkspace. You know when you're really stressed or not feeling so great about your life or about yourself, talking to someone who understands can really help. But who is that person? How do you find them? Where do you even start? Talkspace Talkspace makes it easy to get the support you need. With Talkspace, you can go online, answer a few questions about your preferences, and be matched with a therapist. And because you'll meet your therapist online, you don't have to take time off work or arrange childcare. You, you'll meet on your schedule wherever you feel most at ease. If you're depressed, stressed, struggling with a relationship, or if you want some counseling for you and your partner or just need a little extra one on one support, Talkspace is here for you. Plus, Talkspace works with most major insurers and most insured members have a $0 copay. No insurance, no problem. Now get $80 off of your first month with promo code space80 when you go to talkspace.com match with a licensed therapist today at talkspace.com save $80 with code space80 at talk what's up everyone?

[Greg Rosenthal]

It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101 free agents, we'll have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

I wanted to give props to the WNBA's all time leading scorer, the one and only Diana Taurasi. Officially retired from the WNBA after 20 seasons. She's 42 and she's stepping away as one of the most decorated players in basketball history. Before I say anything like that, could y'all do me a favor please and just take a moment to look at this full screen and check out her resume. 3 time WNBA Champion 2 time WNBA Finals MVP 3 time NCAA Champion, 2 time in these NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player 6 time Olympic Gold Medalist 2009 WNBA MVP 2 time Naismith College Basketball Player of the Year 14 time All WNBA 10 time First Team 11 time WNBA All 2004 Rookie of the Year WNBA 5 time WNBA Scoring Champion My God. My God. Who the hell has a resume like that? Who's this person Who? Six gold medals. Six. This basketball, ladies and gentlemen. This ain't swimming. I mean, hell, this is.

[Greg Rosenthal]

What she doing.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Diana Taurasi, the white mamba. That one, by the way, one of the best people that, that I've ever covered in professional sports. Just straight shooter, very authentic, you know, highly competitive, a winner on every level. Excuse my language. She's just the. She really is. And the game is going to miss her. Thank you for all that you've done for the game. Diana Taurasi. Thank you for all you have done for the game. You are something special, make no mistake about that.

[Talkspace]

This podcast is sponsored by Talkspace. You know when you're really stressed or not feeling so great about your life or about yourself, talking to someone who understands can really help. But who is that person? How do you find them? Where do you even start? Talkspace. Talkspace makes it easy to get the support you need. With Talkspace, you can go online, answer a few questions about your preferences, and be matched with a therapist. And because you'll meet your therapist online, you don't have to take time off work or arrange childcare. You'll meet on your schedule wherever you feel most at ease. If you're depressed, stressed, struggling with a relationship, or if you want some counseling for you and your partner or just need a little extra one on one support you, Talkspace is here for you. Plus, Talkspace works with most major insurers and most insured members have a $0 copay. No insurance, no problem. Now get $80 off of your first month with promo code SPACE80 when you go to talkspace.com, match with a licensed therapist today at talkspace.com Save $80 with code [e-mail] what's up everyone?

[Greg Rosenthal]

It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the king of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agen podcast. You'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs, mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.