Jackson ages like fine wine

Feature image via: Tanya Hawkins Photography

Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson continues to build her legacy after a heroic 43-point, 22-rebound performance over the Maitland Mustangs in Round 5.

She was named the Foot Locker Player of the Week and the internet went ablaze seeing the former WNBA MVP continuing to dominate before her 43rd birthday. 

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“I've said it once, I'll say it again. It's an absolute pleasure to be part of this,” head coach Sam McDonald said on social media. 

“Crazy to think we've only had one training session with Lauren so far this season.”

Jeeeeesus https://t.co/fJMF6WMdsG

— Arielle (Ari) Chambers (@ariivory) May 5, 2024

The Bandits are currently undefeated and sitting 7-0 at the top of the NBL1 East ladder, but the GOAT isn’t Albury-Wodonga’s only weapon. Perth Lynx prodigy Ash Hannan is averaging 13.4 points and 8.3 rebounds alongside Jackson, while the returning Emma Mahady and import Mikayla Pivec round out the backcourt perfectly. 

Jackson currently leads the entire women's NBL1 competition in scoring with 33.1 points per game, while leading the East conference in rebounding with 16 per game (third in the competition behind Mikaela Ruef and Anneli Maley). 

Despite their current streak, Bandits fans have even more to look forward to, as 2022 NBL1 East Finals MVP Unique Thompson is set to return to the club later this month.

Outside of their immense talent, their home-court advantage in the aptly named Lauren Jackson Sports Centre has been the difference marker this season. 

Related: Albury-Wodonga's home crowd advantage

However, with two road games in Round 6, can the Bandits maintain their winning streak? 

Watch the Bandits take on the Bankstown Bruins on Saturday and the Penrith Panthers on Sunday live via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App.