Lauren Jackson: A pioneer for women's basketball in Australia

The announcement by Lauren Jackson of her forced retirement due to injury was a sad day for Australia’s greatest ever female basketball player.

Jackson’s distinguished career which included three Olympic Silver medals, one Olympic Bronze medal, one World Championship Gold, two World Championship Bronze and one Commonwealth Gold elevated her to the elite Sportswoman status not only in Australia, but also around the World.

Lauren Jackson was undoubtedly a pioneer for other Australian female basketball players to head overseas and to take their game to another level by competing in the top leagues around the world. This would allow them to built their profile and to be rewarded financially while doing so.

She must also be an inspiration for male basketball players from Australia, who have seen her go to the big time and succeed.

Her outstanding achievements aside, Jackson’s dedication to basketball and her willingness to give back to the sport that has given her so much through her junior coaching and involvement in basketball at all different levels is a testament to her character. She should never be underestimated, even in retirement.

You did Australia proud Lauren so you deserve all the accolades and recognition that are going to come your way. Thanks for the memories and may your retirement be as rewarding and fulfilling to you as your superb career was.

Read The Roar’s Steve Smith describe Lauren Jackson as Australia’s best ever basketball player.