Another Olympic dream for legendary Jackson as Opals announce strong roster

BELEM (Brazil) - After what looked like a fairytale ending to her astonishing career at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022, it could be an Olympic farewell instead for Opals' legend Lauren Jackson.

The experienced and renowned forward is on the final 12-player Australia roster that will touch down in Belem, Brazil for the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament, as the Opals try to secure what would be a special 10th appearance at the Olympic Games.

Jackson helped the Opals take bronze in Sydney at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022

Jackson could be on course for a spectacular fifth Olympic appearance if the Opals make it and she is selected for this year's big event. She last featured more than a decade ago at London 2012. 

It's a seriously strong lineup for head coach Sandy Brondello to utilize with eight returning members from the side that finished with bronze in Sydney at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022.

The likes of Tess Madgen, Cayla George, Marianna Tolo, Lauren Jackson, Ezi Magbegor, Bec Allen, Sara Blicavs and Sami Whitcomb are all ready to do repeat the success of 18 months ago on the global stage. 

Tokyo 2020 Olympian Alanna Smith is back on the roster

They are joined by Tokyo Olympian Alanna Smith and Jade Melbourne who come back into the mix, while teenage rising star Isobel Borlase and point guard Steph Reid will both make their tournament debuts at the senior level. 

Brondello insisted that while Steph Talbot, Kristy Wallace, Darcee Garbin and Alice Kunek were unavailable for selection due to being sidelined, the team was focused and ready to hit the ground running.

"I’m really happy to finally announce the team. We have been hit with some injuries for sure, but that’s the nature of what we do so we prepare for that,” Brondello said.

"Brazil is first up and with the home crowd they will be tough. Germany is a team on the rise and we have a really competitive history against Serbia, so there are no easy games.

Head coach Sandy Brondello had a few players ruled out but is confident of the Opals' prospects

“We have limited preparation time for this window but we will take that as a motivator. This is where our experienced players will really make a difference. We are completely locked in now on the three games and securing our Olympic spot.”

Meanwhile Olympian Tess Madgen highlighted the importance of putting the national team jersey back on and added: "Qualifiers are always tough, the competition continues to improve, we have long distances to travel and limited time to prepare but we know how to win and the green and gold always brings out the best in us."

Jade Melbourne can't wait to play with fellow rising star and ex U19 room-mate Izzy Borlase

Young gun Jade Melbourne was thrilled with her opportunity to join and stated: "Playing for the Opals is the pinnacle for me. I can’t wait to get on the plane, get to Brazil and do whatever I can to help the team qualify.

“I’m super excited to embark on this journey with Izzy Borlase. We were room-mates at the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup and are so happy for each other," she concluded.

Australia open up their campaign on Thursday February 8 against Brazil.

 

 

FIBA