NBL1 stars set for Paris Olympics

Basketball Australia has announced the 26 players that will compete for a spot in the Opals Paris Olympic team. 

The squad features 14 combined Olympic Games appearances, 11 members of the FIBA 2022 World Cup team which won a bronze medal as well as young guns Jade Melbourne and Isobel Borlase who helped the Opals qualify for Paris at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in February.

Former Ballarat Miner and College star Georgia Amoore, who played for Virginia Tech and is eligible to be selected in April’s WNBA draft, has earned selection in her first Opals squad.

Melbourne Tigers signing Sara Blicavs underwent surgery this week and will miss the tournament.

Opals Head Coach Sandy Brondello said selecting the squad was an important step in preparations for Paris.

“It’s always an exciting time to announce an Olympic squad and I congratulate all the athletes. They all know what it means to play for Australia, and they all want the opportunity to represent their country at an Olympics,” Brondello said.

“Our squad is full of exceptional talent, and they will make the decision to pick a final 12 very difficult. We have Canada, Nigeria and France in our pool, so we are focused on that and what is required to get onto the podium.”

Check out which players from the 2024 NBL1 season will be competing for a spot in Paris below: 
Rebecca Allen
Zitina Aokuso (Mount Gambier Pioneers)
Georgia Amoore
Amy Atwell (Bendigo Braves)
Chloe Bibby 
Isobel Borlase
Keely Froling 
Darcee Garbin
Cayla George
Shyla Heal
Lauren Jackson (Albury-Wodonga Bandits) 
Alice Kunek (Casey Cavaliers)
Tess Madgen 
Ezi Magbegor
Anneli Maley (Perth Redbacks) 
Jade Melbourne (Melbourne Tigers)
Lauren Nicholson (Sutherland Sharks)