Why Hamilton Wasn’t Given Russell’s One-Stop Strategy in the Belgian GP

Legendary hooper Lauren Jackson has become the oldest player to ever compete in Olympic basketball, both women’s and men’s categories, after taking to the court for the Opals in their opener against Nigeria at 43 years and 79 days old.

Jackson surpassed the previous record set by Spanish playmaker Laia Palau, who was 41 years and 332 days old at Tokyo 2020. On the men’s side, Brazilian veteran Marcelinho Huertas holds the record, having played at the Men’s Olympic Basketball Tournament in Paris 2024 at 41 years and 63 days old.

In Lille, another milestone was set as Diana Taurasi of the USA is expected to take second place in the record books when she steps onto the court against Japan at 42 years and 48 days old.

This new record adds to Jackson’s extraordinary legacy. She already holds Olympic records for points scored (581), field goals made (214), rebounds (281), and blocks (42).

In addition to setting the age record, Jackson’s game against Nigeria saw her move to third place on the all-time list of Olympic appearances (33), becoming the Opals’ player with the most Olympic outings, surpassing Kristi Harrower (32).