AUS - Bitter-sweet for Joyce ahead of training camp

CANBERRA (FIBA World Championship for Women) - Australia head coach Brendan Joyce is to be boosted by the arrival of his European-based stars and a fully fit Rachel Jarry at his forthcoming FIBA World Championship for Women preparation camp, but will again be without kingpin Lauren Jackson who could be out for up to three months.

The Opals legend has undergone minor surgery on her knee and will embark on a 12-week rehabilitation programme in a bid to be firing on all cylinders for Turkey.

The 33-year-old star is the most decorated player in Australian basketball history and her inclusion in the final roster is likely to be central to the team's medal prospects later this year.

In contrast to having to sweat over the recovery of Jackson, the play-caller has been boosted by Jarry recovering from knee surgery, having had her WNBL campaign brought to a premature end back in January.

While she only managed to play just three games last season, Joyce confirmed it was exciting to have her participating fully in activities again.

"It's been a long time coming for Rachel and it's great for her and the squad, to have her back in full training," he said.

"Despite her injury, Rachel has stayed committed to the programme, attending every camp and that will stand her in good stead for a smooth transition into our system."

Jarry joined her fellow Olympic bronze medallists Liz Cambage, Laura Hodges and Jenni Screen, with the quartet making up part of what will be a 17-strong line-up at the Basketball Australia National Centre of Excellence next week.

Belinda Snell and Marianna Tolo will return for their first involvement after playing in Europe, with the latter winning the French Cup and playing at the EuroLeague Women Final Eight.

Meanwhile Cayla Francis, who also plays her club basketball in France, has been named in the squad after being rewarded for a strong campaign with Nantes Reze.

"It's great to have players of the calibre of Belinda and Marianna back in the squad as we draw closer to the World Championships in late September," stressed Joyce.

"They were key players in the FIBA Oceania Championship last year and have both enjoyed successful EuroLeague Women and domestic seasons abroad.

"It's an exciting time in our preparation to be adding talented, experienced players into the program ahead of next month's tour of Japan."

Bendigo Spirit and Centre of Excellence Women's Team guard Tessa Lavey and Hanna Zavecz have both been recalled.

However, the participation of Dandenong Rangers sharp-shooter Alice Kunek in Turkey now looks to be in serious doubt after she picked up a shoulder injury which could sideline her for several months.

FIBA