Lauren Jackson ends Olympic career with a fifth medal as Australia wins bronze in women's basketball

PARIS (AP) — Lauren Jackson ended her illustrious international career with a fifth Olympic medal.

The 43-year-old Australian star has now won three silver medals and two bronze after the Opals beat Belgium 85-81 on Sunday, moving her into a tie for second for the most decorated Olympic women's basketball player ever. Only Diana Taurasi has more with six.

“Five for five!” Jackson exclaimed as she came through the postgame press area.

Jackson didn't play much in this Olympics, which she said will allow her to remember everything compared to when she was playing.

“I’ve been on the sidelines,” Jackson said of the Paris Games. “I’ve been supporting the girls, and I think that’s, yeah, it has been one of my favorites absolutely.”

Jackson was also able to share this experience with her two sons, who attended the Games. Even though she won't be playing anymore, Jackson says she'll stay involved with the Opals, offering whatever help they need behind the scenes.

Even playing in this Olympics after retiring in 2016 after multiple knee surgeries is a feat. She started playing in the Australian domestic league a few years ago, and then ended up leading the team to a bronze medal in the 2022 World Cup.

“I think Lauren’s name is synonymous with success, with basketball. And I think she just brings a lot of experience to our team, whether she’s on the floor or not,” said Ezi Magbegor, who had 30 points and 13 rebounds in the win over Belgium. “I think just she adds greatness to us. And so to be able to play with her and experience this with her, is a real honor to me.

"I think just coming into this Olympics, we knew what Lauren has done for basketball, what she’s had in her career. And so she is the best, she wins wherever she goes. And so it’s great to just get a bronze medal with her as well.”

Alanna Smith said that Jackson provided valuable wisdom to the team with her vast experience.

“She was like my comfort blanket. Like I remember in the France game, I was sitting on the bench and she was just holding me. I think we needed to win by six and we’re there just like keeping it together, together," Smith said. “When she speaks, we listen, you know, and yeah, I was just really grateful for the chance to also play with someone like Lauren.”

___

AP Summer Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games