The Lauren Jackson Sports Centre has officially reopened in Albury following the completion of its Stage 1 redevelopment, marking an important milestone for basketball in regional Australia.
Unveiled on 14 January 2026, the redevelopment delivers a range of upgrades designed to better support participation and performance, including a new playing surface, improved change room facilities, increased show-court seating and upgraded administration and corporate spaces.
First opened in 1984, the centre has long been a cornerstone of basketball in southern New South Wales and continues to play a vital role in servicing the local community while hosting state and national competitions.
Named after Albury-born basketball legend Lauren Jackson, the venue reflects a legacy built from grassroots beginnings through to international success. Jackson attended the reopening and unveiled a permanent display celebrating her career, featuring her greatest achievements including Olympic medals, Hall of Fame trophies, and Olympic-worn uniform and footwear. The display provides a powerful connection between the centre, its community and future generations of players.
As part of the reopening celebrations, the centre also hosted a She Hoops clinic, delivered in conjunction with the Australian Junior Country Cup. Led by Lauren Jackson and Opals captain Tess Madgen, the session welcomed participants aged 6–14 for on-court skill development and engagement, showcasing Basketball Australia’s commitment to inclusive environments and positive participation experiences for all young people.
“Lauren has done so much for basketball through her playing, and it’s incredible to see how she continues to impact the game off the court, especially for women and girls,” Madgen said.
“Her vision, work ethic, leadership and selflessness were on full display on Wednesday, from sharing her greatest achievements at the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre to inspiring the next generation through the She Hoops clinic. You truly can’t be what you can’t see, and LJ has lived this across generations, inspiring those I grew up with through to the six-year-olds of today. We are so lucky to learn from her, and I feel incredibly grateful to work alongside her.”
With Stage 1 complete, the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre stands ready to support the continued growth of basketball across the region from grassroots programs to major events, while remaining a powerful symbol of opportunity, community and legacy.
Basketball Australia congratulates Albury City Council and all partners involved in delivering this important redevelopment and looks forward to the centre’s ongoing impact on regional basketball.
Head to the She Hoops website or head to shehoops.aus on Instagram for more.
