Two-time Australian Opals captain and dual Olympian, Jenna O’Hea, has announced her retirement from both international and national basketball.
After 81 senior appearances in the green and gold spanning across 12 years, O’Hea’s highly decorated career has placed her as one of Australia’s basketball greats.
National team captain at both the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2018 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Spain, O’Hea has seen success on the biggest of stages, including podium finishes at all major events.
A 2012 London Olympic Games bronze medal launched her first taste of international success and was followed by a 2018 calendar that saw the Opals achieve a silver at the FIBA World Cup, and the ultimate gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in front of a home crowd. O’Hea and the Opals were able to return for a FIBA Asia Cup bronze in 2019 also.
Locally, O’Hea has been a star competing in the WNBL. A 3x WNBL Champion, 5x WNBL All-Star and Life Member, O’Hea calls time on her career just short of 300 games.
Announcing her retirement via her Instagram on Tuesday night, O’Hea was filled with a range of emotions when making this decision.
“I have given my whole heart, body, soul and mind to this great sport and I simply have nothing left to give,” O’Hea wrote.
“I am so lucky to have many, many teammates, coaches, fans and supporters that have been part of this incredible journey. I’d like to thank each and every one of you for your incredible support during my career.”
Australian Opals head coach, Sandy Brondello commends Jenna for giving her all to the game.
“Jenna’s commitment and contributions to basketball in Australia and internationally have been outstanding. Her record and achievements in the game both individually and for the many teams she has played, speak for themselves and she deserves every accolade and acknowledgment that comes her way,” Brondello said.
“She has played and led the game at all levels and always wore the green and gold with great pride throughout her 12 years with the Opals. She was an inspiration to her teammates which is what every coach wants and needs on their team.
“Jenna can certainly walk away proud and satisfied of not only her achievements in the sport but also knowing that she has also inspired so many others throughout her career.”
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