Lauren Jackson selected for fifth Olympics representing Australia
- Lauren Jackson, Australia's greatest women's basketballer, aged 43, has been chosen to compete in her fifth Olympics.
- Jackson was selected for Australia's Opals team alongside other notable players like Mills and Giddey for the Boomers team.
- This achievement comes 12 years after her last appearance at the Olympic Games in London.
In a remarkable comeback, Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson has been selected to compete at her fifth Olympics, just four months after coming out of retirement. The announcement was made by Chef de Mission for the Australian Olympic Team, Anna Meares, in Melbourne, alongside the naming of the Opals, Boomers, and 3x3 teams. Jackson, a three-time WNBA MVP, retired for the second time in February but was coaxed back into the fold and included in the 12-player squad for Paris 2024. At 43 years old, Jackson's return to the Olympic arena after 12 years is a testament to her enduring legacy in Australian sports. Joining Jackson in the Opals squad are veterans Cayla George and Marianna Tolo, along with a mix of experienced and young players. The Opals, who have won multiple Olympic medals but never gold, are aiming for a strong performance in Paris. The Boomers team, led by Patty Mills and Joe Ingles, includes a mix of Tokyo Olympic bronze medallists and promising young talents like Josh Giddey. The team's opponents in Paris are yet to be finalized, with high expectations for a competitive showing. The selection of Jackson, alongside other basketball greats, highlights the depth of talent in Australian basketball and the team's potential for success at the upcoming Olympics. With a strong mix of experience, leadership, and emerging talent, the Australian teams are poised to make a mark in the Paris 2024 tournaments. The Opals, Boomers, and 3x3 teams represent a blend of past achievements and future aspirations, setting the stage for an exciting Olympic campaign for Australian basketball.