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Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson will extend her remarkable career for at least one more WNBL season.
- Lauren Jackson has played in four Olympics for the Opals
- The 42-year-old injured her Achilles during last year's WNBL season
- Jackson said the increased focus on women's sport helped make her decision to return
The 42-year-old has recovered from an Achilles injury sustained in February and will suit up again for the Melbourne-based Southside Flyers when the new season starts on November 1.
"I've worked hard on rehab and feeling ready to get on court again, so I'm really excited about being out there with a great group of players and a fantastic club," Jackson said in a statement.
Jackson said the increased focus on women's sport in Australia — largely on the back of the Matildas' FIFA World Cup performances — had played a role in her decision to return to the court.
"If me being part of the WNBL again inspires even one girl or woman to play, or to get involved in basketball, or to come along to see a game, I'll be really happy," she said.
WNBL boss Christy Collier-Hill welcomed Jackson's return.
"Lauren Jackson is quite simply the GOAT [greatest of all-time] and we are beyond excited to have her back," Collier-Hill said.
"It's just incredible to think she won her first WNBL title 24 years ago."
A four-time Olympian, Jackson is a four-time MVP and five-time championship winner in the WNBL.
She also made a huge mark in the United States, where she was a seven-time WNBA All-Star.
Jackson led Seattle Storm to two WNBA championships and was a three-time MVP in the world's best league.
AAP
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