Diana Taurasi boosts Dennis Schroder's spirit before Germany's Olympic showdown: "You got all the heart"

By Ethen Hutton

Modified Jul 26, 2024 06:34 GMT

Diana Taurasi is no stranger to the big stage as the WNBA legend is appearing in her sixth Olympics in Paris this year. The veteran guard boasts one of the most impressive Olympic resumes of all time, having won five gold medals with the United States women's national team.

Ahead of the Paris Olympics, where Team USA are on the hunt for an eighth straight gold, Taurasi linked up with German flagbearer, Dennis Schroder.

FIBA shared a video of their friendly exchange in which Taurasi wished Shroder good luck.

"It's alright. You've got all the heart. I'll be watching," Taurasi said.

Team USA will play their first game at the Paris Olympics on July 29 versus Japan, while Schroder and Germany will match up against Japan's men's team on July 27.

Diana Taurasi announces 2024 Paris Olympics will be her final Olympic Games

In an interview with ESPN's Michele Steele, Diana Taurasi said she would not be returning for future Olympic Games. The veteran guard is set to be the oldest women's basketball player to represent Team USA at the Olympics.

"Well, it definitely is it for Team USA basketball. I'm 42, six Olympics. It's just been such an honor to put on that jersey every single time."

The 42-year-old has been a key player for her nation since making her debut, winning four USA Basketball Female Athlete of the Year awards, in 2006, 2010, 2012 and 2016.

In her Olympic career, Taurasi has averaged 10.9 points, 2.6 assists and 3.0 rebounds per game, shooting 46.5% from the field and 45% from behind the arc.

She holds several Olympic and United States women's basketball records. Taurasi's 414 points are second in US history and fourth in Olympic history, while her 97 assists are third in US history and tied for fourth in Olympic history. Moreover, her 78 3-pointers rank first all-time in US and Olympic history.