The international career of controversial star Liz Cambage appears to be over, after she was officially left out of the Australian Opals squad for next year’s Basketball World Cup in Sydney.
Basketball Australia has named a 24-player squad, which will start preparations in February ahead of September’s World Cup.
Cambage maintains the omission was her call, saying on social media she has “zero” interest in representing Australia.
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A report from The Age broke the news of her omission on the weekend, leading to a furious response from the 30-year-old.
“Overlooked and left off what? That ‘big call’ was my call buddy,” Cambage tweeted.
https://twitter.com/ecambage/status/1467247213244002313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Cambage also posted a screenshot of what she claims is an email from BA asking her to confirm her availability for selection.
“We are reaching out to you respectfully to determine whether you want to be considered as a squad member or not for World Cup 2022,” the email said.
“If you are not interested in that journey and the commitment required by all squad members then BA would appreciate you advising us accordingly.”
Cambage’s reply was blunt.
“Do you ever get sick of lying on my name? MY interest was and still is ZERO,” she wrote.
The WNBA star has been at odds with BA since she with withdrew from the Australian team prior to the Tokyo Olympics, citing mental health issues and panic attacks.
Prior to her withdrawal, Cambage had been involved in a physical altercation during a warm-up prior to a match against Nigeria. She was subsequently found guilty by BA but escaped a fine or suspension.
“The panel, after examination of the evidence before it, determined that Elizabeth Cambage did engage in conduct that brought Basketball Australia into censure in relation to one of the incidents charged,” BA said in a statement.
Cambage also hit out at the Australian Olympic Committee prior to the Tokyo Games over a promotional photo shoot featuring predominantly white athletes.
“How am I meant to represent a country that doesn’t even represent me,” Cambage said.
Australian Opals World Cup squad: Rebecca Allen, Zitina Aokuso, Sara Blicavs, Rebecca Cole, Keely Froling, Darcee Garbin, Cayla George, Shyla Heal, Tessa Lavey, Eziyoda Magbegor, Tess Madgen, Jade Melbourne, Leilani Mitchell, Lauren Nicholson, Jenna O’Hea, Maddison Rocci, Lauren Scherf, Alex Sharp, Alanna Smith, Stephanie Talbot, Marianna Tolo, Kristy Wallace, Abbey Wehrung, Sami Whitcomb.
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