Ally Wilson’s remarkable journey back to the basketball court has been nothing short of extraordinary. After losing her passion for the game in 2021 and contemplating retirement, she received an invitation to join Australia’s 3×3 squad, the Gangurrus. This new form of the game reignited her love for basketball, and at the age of 30, she is now poised to represent her country as an Olympian in Paris.
Wilson’s road back to the game was fraught with challenges. She faced the highs and lows of elite sport, including overcoming three knee surgeries and questioning her love for basketball after the 2020 Covid hub season. At a crossroads, working full time and no longer finding joy in the game, she found solace in her involvement with 3×3 and the Bendigo Spirit. Wilson attributes these experiences to saving her career and leading her to the incredible opportunity to compete in the Olympics. She expresses immense gratitude for the journey ahead.
Her unwavering commitment to the sport is evident, from earning Rookie of the Year honours in the WNBL to persevering through the challenges of finding a team for the 2021-22 season. Her determination and resilience have paved the way for her current success as an integral part of Australia’s 3×3 team.
The whirlwind trips overseas for tournaments and the journey to qualify for the Olympics have become the new norm for the Gangurrus. Their collection of 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2023 FIBA World Cup bronze medals is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport.
Looking ahead, Wilson’s Olympic dream is within reach, a dream she never anticipated as a child. While her childhood ambition was to play 5×5 basketball, the introduction of 3×3 has captivated her heart. She is thrilled to represent her country at the highest level and is proud of the journey she and her team have undertaken over the past two and a half years.
In addition to her Olympic journey, Wilson has agreed to join the Perth Lynx for the upcoming season, expressing her admiration for the team’s success and playing style. She believes that the Lynx have the potential to contend for the championship and is eager to be part of their fast-paced environment.
As the Gangurrus prepare for the Olympics, Wilson recognizes the hard work that has gone into their preparation. With their sights set on a medal, she is confident in their abilities and believes that winning a medal at the Olympics would be the ultimate achievement for their team.
In conclusion, Ally Wilson’s journey from losing her love for basketball to becoming an Olympian is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and passion for the game. Her story serves as an inspiration to anyone facing challenges in their sporting journey and underscores the power of perseverance and dedication in achieving extraordinary opportunities.