Reigning WNBA MVP and Australian Opals forward Lauren Jackson has returned to Australia with permission from her Russian club Sparta&k Moscow Region, after suffering an acute Achilles tendon injury.

Jackson was assessed by medical staff yesterday afternoon at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) to determine the extent of the injury and to begin the process of recovery and rehabilitation.

Basketball Australia Chief Executive Larry Sengstock expressed concerns about the superstar’s health, but feels that her returning to Australia for treatment will offer the best chance of a speedy recovery.

“She is getting treatment at the AIS where some of the best sports medical experts are based and who are also in direct contact with our Australian basketball team doctors,” he said.

“Once we have more information, she will be able to make a decision about her short-term future.”

Consultation with Basketball Australia team doctor Dr David Hughes and an MRI scan over Christmas revealed the injury, which Jackson’s club Sparta&k Moscow Region agreed would be best assessed and treated back home in Australia.

As a former AIS scholarship holder, Jackson has previously returned to the AIS for treatment and rehabilitation of a back injury she sustained in 2009 with great success. Chief physiotherapist at the AIS, Craig Purdam, assessed Lauren’s current injury and will make recommendations for her treatment.

“It is certainly a serious injury, and we will be working to ensure that she gets it right so that she can continue her illustrious career,” said Sengstock.

Basketball Australia