Veteran Players in Olympic Basketball
- Veteran basketball players Lauren Jackson and Diana Taurasi are preparing to join their respective Olympic teams.
- Jackson acknowledges her age while Taurasi prefers to focus on her performance rather than discussions about age.
- Their participation emphasizes experience as a valuable asset in competitive sports.
In a thrilling lead-up to the Olympic quarterfinals, two WNBA icons, Diana Taurasi and Lauren Jackson, are poised for a potential showdown on Friday, contingent on their teams' success in Wednesday's matches. At 42, Taurasi is making her sixth consecutive Olympic appearance, while Jackson, 43, returns after a 12-year hiatus. Jackson expressed her surprise at being back on this grand stage, stating, “I never, ever anticipated that I’d be back here again,” highlighting the unique experience of competing at this level once more. The Australian team, led by Jackson, is eager to face Serbia in their quarterfinal match, hoping to replicate the excitement of past encounters. Although the U.S. and Australia did not meet during the World Championships two years ago, the prospect of a Friday clash looms large, adding to the anticipation surrounding the tournament. Jackson reflected on her return, emphasizing the importance of taking each day as it comes in this competitive environment. Taurasi, on the other hand, has voiced her frustration with the narrative surrounding her age, which often casts a shadow over her remarkable achievements. She pointed out that no woman has participated in six Olympics, and her extensive experience should be celebrated rather than viewed as a disadvantage. U.S. forward Napheesa Collier praised Taurasi's unique perspective on the game, noting her exceptional ability to analyze and adapt during play, underscoring the value of her two decades of experience in women's basketball.