The basketball superstar, who signed a new three-year deal with the Seattle Storm last week, is close to a return to the court for the first time since June 21 after hip surgery.

“I’m very excited but humbled to have the sports centre named in my honour,’’ she said yesterday.

“I’m grateful to the Albury Council and people of Albury for this recognition.

“Wherever I go in the world I always consider myself a country girl from Albury. It will indeed always be my home.

“I’m very proud to have this connection to a city I love and can represent.”

The opening coincides with Albury hosting the NSW Catholic primary schools championships involving 700 children.

Jackson said she was looking forward to meeting some young players.

“Basketball has given me wonderful opportunities in life but I never forget the grassroots of this wonderful sport and my upbringing,” she said.