THE Australian Opals are in a seriously strong position heading into the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, naming an extremely stacked team for the tournament later this month.

With the Olympic Games set to begin on July 26, basketball sides are being finalised around the world, and on Australian shores, hopes are certainly high after 12 superstars were named to the Opals squad.

The biggest story from the team announcement is that Lauren Jackson will be suiting up for her fifth Olympic Games, setting up a potential fairytale gold medal 24 years after making her debut at the Sydney games. Still able to take over a game as a scorer and rebounder, Australia’s greatest ever basketballer will play a key role once again.

Despite a partial Achilles tear last year, Jackson is truly demonstrating that age is just a number, and is one of the key storylines for Australia in any sport at the 2024 games.

After initially naming a squad of 26, head coach Sandy Brondello has cut that down to 12, and there are plenty of familiar faces set to make the trip to France.

Cayla George and Marianna Tolo are destined for their third Olympics, while captain Tess Madgen, Stephanie Talbot, Alanna Smith, Steph Reid and Eziyoda Magbegor are all returning for their second tournament, showcasing just how much experience Australia is bringing to the table.

Making their Olympic debuts are established duo Kristy Wallace and Sami Whitcomb, alongside talented young stars Isobel Borlase and Jade Melbourne. The latter pair loom as the future of Australian female basketball, and their first appearances at Olympic level gives plenty to be excited about.

Australia will play host nation France, Canada and Nigeria in the pool stages, with the Opals a genuine chance of taking home another medal.

Australian Opals 2024 Olympic Squad

Rebecca Allen
Isobel Borlase
Cayla George
Lauren Jackson
Tess Madgen
Ezi Magbegor
Jade Melbourne
Alanna Smith
Stephanie Talbot
Marianna Tolo
Kristy Wallace
Sami Whitcomb