Snell Retires from International Basketball
By Susannah Walmsley
Australian Opals stalwart, Belinda Snell, has capped off her highly decorated international basketball career with a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.
Playing in her 159th contest for Australia and captaining the Opals at the Games, Snell announced her retirement prior to the final.
Following a dominant tournament, the Opals put together another clinical performance to claim a 99-55 victory over England, replicating their success from twelve years ago. Snell finished the game with 9 points, 4 rebounds and 3 blocks.
“The Gold Coast Commonwealth Games was an amazing experience. The whole atmosphere was fantastic,” Snell said.
“To win the gold medal and enjoy that memorable moment with an incredible team was a huge honour.”
Snell grew up in the small country Victorian town of Mirboo North, with aspirations to represent her country at the highest level and hasn’t she ever.
She retires as a three-time Olympic medalist, a FIBA World Championship gold medalist from 2006 and a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist.
Flames general manager, assistant coach and former Australian representative, Karen Dalton, had only great things to say about the Flames Captain. “Snelly has had such a fantastic career representing Australia. She is a wonderful role model on and off the court and her determination yet humble nature exemplifies what every coach wants to instil in each of their players. She’s an inspiration to so many and it’s been great to have seen her career develop on the world stage over the years.”
True to form, Snell was typically gracious when asked to comment on her illustrious international career. “I have been so fortunate to represent Australia. To play with the Opals has been a dream come true.”
“I am very lucky to have had the opportunity to travel the world playing the game I love.”
Currently, Snell is coaching the Southern Design Sydney Uni Sparks in SEABL and she will back on court for the Brydens Sydney Uni Flames in the upcoming WNBL season.
Congratulations on a wonderful international career Snelly!