Maddie Thompson Bids Farewell to International Basketball After 16 Years of Excellence

After an incredible 16-year journey representing Great Britain on the international stage, Maddie Thompson has announced her retirement from international wheelchair basketball. Her departure marks the end of an era, one defined by resilience, leadership, and an unwavering passion for the game.

A Record-Breaking Debut and a Meteoric Rise

Maddie’s basketball story began with a historic moment. In 2008, at just 13 years old, she became the youngest player ever to represent Great Britain when she stepped onto the court at the European U22 Championships. Competing against older and more experienced athletes, she proved that age was no barrier to talent, playing with a level of confidence and composure well beyond her years.

Her rapid ascent continued as she earned a place in the GB Senior squad within months of her junior debut—an achievement that set the tone for a remarkable international career. From that moment on, Maddie became a cornerstone of British wheelchair basketball, known for her agility, precision, and ability to rise to any challenge on the court.

Medals, Leadership, and a Legacy

Throughout her time with the GB Senior squad, Maddie played a key role in some of the team’s greatest achievements. She helped Great Britain secure silver at the 2018 World Championships—one of the nation’s best-ever finishes on the global stage. She also played a pivotal role in multiple European Championships, amassing three bronze medals and one silver, solidifying her reputation as a fierce competitor.

Maddie’s leadership qualities shone brightly at the 2019 U25 World Championships, where she served as Vice-Captain. Under her guidance, the team battled their way to a bronze medal, showcasing not only her skill but also her ability to inspire and uplift those around her.

A Paralympic Journey That Inspired Many

For any athlete, competing at a home Paralympic Games is a dream come true. In 2012, Maddie made her Paralympic debut at the London Games—an event that transformed the landscape of Paralympic sport in the UK. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, she experienced firsthand the power of sport to unite and inspire. The visibility of wheelchair basketball skyrocketed, and Maddie was at the heart of a movement that encouraged more people to take up the game.

Eight years later, she returned to the Paralympic stage at Tokyo 2020, this time not just as a player but as a leader. As co-captain of the GB Women’s team, she embraced a dual role, also serving as an assistant coach. Her ability to lead both on and off the court was a testament to her deep understanding of the game and her commitment to helping others reach their potential.

A Lasting Impact and the Next Chapter

Though she is stepping away from international duty, Maddie’s passion for the game remains as strong as ever. She continues to play domestically for the Sheffield Steelers in the National League—the very club where her basketball journey first began. Returning to the court with the Steelers isn’t just about competition; it’s about giving back to the sport that shaped her life.

Her journey from a 13-year-old prodigy to a Paralympic veteran has left an indelible mark on British wheelchair basketball. Beyond the medals and accolades, her legacy is one of determination, leadership, and the belief that anything is possible with hard work and heart.

As Maddie embarks on this new chapter, her impact will continue to be felt, whether through the players she’s inspired, the teams she’s led, or the fans who watched her play with passion and pride.