Lauren Jackson's first year as coach has come to an end after the Bandits' final game of the season at the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre on Saturday night.
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A 14-point loss to Knox and two wins by eighth placed Waverley put an end to the home side's chances of securing a finals spot, as they finished the season ranked 10th in the NBL1 competition.
Despite not progressing to finals, Jackson said she was proud of the determination the Border side showed throughout the season.
"I'm very proud of them and I told them that after the game," Jackson said.
"They showed a lot of grit and determination.
"That's how they were all season and they never gave up.
"I don't know if I'm going to stay involved in the program, but I think the women are in good hands if they continue to build on this season and keep going.
"I think they're in a good place and next year should get into finals and do more."
A devastating foot injury to star point-guard Nat Hurst during the side's round 14 double header left a dark cloud over the side as they looked to fill her spot for the last two games.
Jackson admitted injuries were costly for the Bandits' this season.
"I think it was a big ask trying to get them to win without Nat," Jackson said.
"She's been our heart and soul a little bit.
"Injury and sickness got the better of us in the end, but that's sport.
"That's how my career ended.
"Injuries happen for a reason, but I'm really happy with how they played and how they grew as players."
Emma Mahady stepped up in the absence of Hurst during the game against the Knox Raiders, while centre Jessie Edwards was the leading scorer of the night with 25-points.
Edwards finished the regular season ranked as the 20th leading scorer in the league, averaging over 17-points per game in her first season with the Border outfit.
Jackson said she's enjoyed leading the Bandits' women this season in her first year at the helm.
"For my first coaching role, I don't think I could have coached a better group of girls," Jackson said.
"I had a great time and I'm really impressed with the girls, they did everything I asked of them.
"I hope the community stick behind the girls so that they have the opportunity to get good players in again next year and hopefully take it one step further.
"It's a very realistic goal, I think we proved that this year."
With the top eight teams now decided, finals will kick-off next weekend.
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