When basketball legend Lauren Jackson announced that she was coming out of retirement, she put the spotlight back on the three-time Hall of Famer. She emerged from retirement with her eyes set on representing Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Jackson is one of the greatest players in women’s basketball history, having won three WNBA MVPs and being named to the Opals 26-player squad at the age of 42 in 2023. The final 12-player roster for the Games included Jackson due to her competitive spirit in securing a spot with the team and her unparalleled experience.

Jackson’s decision to return is deeply personal. After helping Australia secure Olympic qualification with a crucial win over Germany, she retired in February 2024. During that time, she noted the challenges of being unable to see her two young sons, aged 7 and 5, as a significant factor. Jackson balanced motherhood and her Olympic ambitions thanks to Basketball Australia’s support for her boys’ travel and care arrangements.

After qualifying for Australia, she stated that she wouldn’t be able to go to Paris without the support of her children.

Jackson shared with The Sydney Morning Herald. “I’m a single mother, and it breaks my heart every time I leave them.”

A Career Defined by Resilience

Jackson’s return to the court has been a remarkable journey. After retiring in 2016 due to knee injuries, she made a fantastic comeback to competitive basketball, playing in Australia’s domestic leagues and inspiring a new generation. She led the Opals to a bronze medal at the 2022 Fiba World Cup with a stunning 30-point performance against Canada at the height of her comeback.

A True Icon of the Game

Jackson’s impact on sports extends far beyond her statistics. Despite winning five Olympic medals, three silvers, and two bronzes, she is still a prominent figure in Australian basketball. She is held in the highest regard by her teammates, opponents, and male counterparts.

“It was different for me, because I was playing a very different role this time, it was definitely more a leadership role,” said Jackson.

“But I was part of something so special and the kids got to really embrace all of it and they wore my medal home on the plane so hopefully it inspires them too.”

Dante Exum, who plays for the Dallas Mavericks and is a fellow Australian, commended her lasting impact. “She’s the icon of women’s basketball in Australia,” he said. “Even though she didn’t play much during the last Olympics, her leadership and presence were crucial. It’s not just about what happens on the court—it’s the support and wisdom behind the scenes that make the difference.”

Opals’ coach, Sandy Brondello, also admired Jackson’s commitment. “Lauren Jackson’s legacy was already set before her comeback,” Brondello said. “What she brought to the team, even she didn’t play as many minutes, is invaluable. Her experience, leadership, and encouragement were critical for us, especially during tough moments.”

Jackson and her fellow countryman Joe Ingles have been friends for a very long time and recently shared his admiration for the five-time Olympic medalist.

“Obviously, [It’s] Impressive what she does and brings to that group. Obviously, with players leaving and retiring to helping to lead a younger group,” said Ingles.

“For her to get back to being injury-free and playing again, no handouts were given. She earned and really helped that group.”

Adding, “I’ve known her for a long time now, and we have always had a great relationship. Just having someone that has done what she has done in her career and putting Australia. Helping others girls and the younger generation. What she did over here [In The States] in the WNBA when she was here. One of our greatest players, men or women, so yeah she had a hell of a career.. It has been an impressive career.”

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Her post-WNBA career has also been shaped by her role as a mother, mentor, and community leader. She Hoops, her initiative, has inspired numerous young athletes and reunited current Opals players with former greats.

A fellow teammate, Sami Whitcomb, shared heartfelt reflections on how Lauren Jackson’s leadership and legacy have profoundly influenced her and their team.

“It’s remarkable. After retiring due to injuries, she came back motivated, even after having kids, to walk away from basketball on her terms,” said Whitcomb.

“She was once the best player on the planet, in my opinion, and while she didn’t reach that level again, she still performed at a very high standard. She earned her spot on the world and Olympic teams. Even though she didn’t play much, her leadership and experience behind the scenes were invaluable. I learned so much from her, and I’m glad she got to leave the game on her terms.”

Whitcomb also praised her community efforts in Australia, “Her return to basketball was special, especially sharing it with her boys. She gives back through initiatives like ‘She Hoops,’ an incredible community-led organization, and reconnecting current Opals players with former ones. She’s an amazing person who uses her platform to impact so many lives, and I’m grateful to call her a friend.”

Ezi Magbegor, a teammate of Jackson on the 2024 bronze medal team, hailed the three-time Hall of Famer as a trailblazer who opened doors for international players and elevated the global profile of women’s basketball.

“Lauren brings incredible leadership and experience to any team, even when not on the floor. She’s medaled at every Olympics, she’s been in and knows how to win. She also paved the way for international players in the WNBA, especially in Seattle, and put women’s basketball in Australia on the map as one of the greatest players in the world.”

Breanna Stewart discussed Lauren Jackson’s remarkable impact on basketball, both on and off the court, and highlighted her lasting legacy and influence.

“Lauren had an incredible career and came back to do even more. I’ve always admired her versatility and everything she’s done, especially with our shared connection to Seattle. It’s great to know her as a friend and see her continue giving back to women’s basketball.”

Jackson would go on to become the first Australian athlete to win a medal at five Olympic Games, and was recently awarded The Dawn Award. An Honor recognizing athletes, teams, or administrators whose stories are not widely known, but Lauren Jackson’s story is a renowned example of unparalleled excellence and achievement in Australian women’s basketball.

The Sport Australia Hall of Fame Selection Committee annually bestows the Don and Dawn awards.