Storm F Jackson to undergo arthroscopic surgery

Aug 20, 2008 - 2:24 AM SEATTLE (Ticker) -- Seattle Storm forward and Australian Olympian Lauren Jackson will undergo arthroscopic surgery on her right ankle following the completion of the Games, the Australian Olympic Committee announced Tuesday.

Jackson has dealt with ankle inflammation for three months and has been receiving treatment throughout the Olympics. She will play in Australia's two remaining games before undergoing the procedure in Sydney next week.

The captain of the Australian team, Jackson scored 17 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead her squad past the Czech Republic, 79-46, Tuesday, and into the semifinals, where it will meet China.

"We are disappointed to hear the news about Lauren's impending surgery, but support her decision to repair her ankle immediately," Storm head coach and director of player personnel Brian Agler said. "We look forward to Lauren's return to Seattle, and meanwhile are focused on preparing to resume the regular season and earn a spot in the playoffs."

Jackson hopes to return to the court for the Storm in 4-6 weeks. She is averaging 20.2 points and seven rebounds in 21 games for Seattle.

"It's been causing pain and inflammation for some time, and I just need to have it cleared up so I can get back on the floor sooner rather than later," Jackson said. "I had ankle reconstruction on the ankle a few years ago and I have every confidence in the surgeon Dr. Martin Sullivan."