Jenna O'Hea, Australian basketball great, farewelled in last home WNBL game with Southside Flyers

Jenna O'Hea, one of Australia's most popular and accomplished basketballers, has played her last home game in the WNBL.

Her 297th appearance in the world-class league was a celebration of her career as a player in Australia, United States, France, and two Olympic Games.

The national captain announced her retirement on Wednesday with three rounds remaining in the season; Southside is last on the ladder with two more away games scheduled.

Team owner Gerry Ryan held a special ceremony after the Thursday night 66-68 loss to Sydney Flames.

«It's been difficult,» he said of the 2021/22 season.

«COVID. Injuries. Missing our coach and three players [for World Cup games].

»But you've got to remember 12 months ago we won the championship."

He paid tribute to Southside's inaugural captain, O'Hea.

«One hundred and seventeen games for Australia, 154 WNBA games, three WNBL championships, five WNBL All-Stars, two Olympic Games and three World Championships, and last, but not least, one Commonwealth Games.

»Not only has she achieved that, she has been a fantastic role model for basketball, for every young girl and boy growing up. What a great ambassador to the sport and to your parents.

«We all love you, Jenna and congratulations. Two more games to go.»

An emotional O'Hea took the microphone and thanked the crowd for attending the game.

«You've all been a massive part of my basketball career,» she said.

«My coaches along the way, all my teammates along the way.

»I see you guys in the corner there, thank you for coming."

A group of her Opals teammates, including Cayla George, Tess Madgen and Ezi Magbegor, were sitting together in the grandstand.

«To my wonderful family, who are all here as well,» O'Hea said.

«Basketball has been my love since pretty much