Nat Hurst was already preparing for a life-changing moment in June, but an unexpected Australian Opals call up will add icing on the cake to an almost 20-year career.
Former Canberra Capitals star Hurst has been called into an Opals camp in Phoenix to work with newly appointed Australian coach Sandy Brondello.
Hurst had almost closed the book on her international ambitions after being left out of the world championships and Olympic Games squads.
But Brondello has offered Hurst a chance to impress and she'll join the training camp just two weeks after partner Tara gives birth to their first child.
"I feel at a relaxed spot in my life and I think that helps on the basketball court," Hurst said.
"Even on the bad game days, you don't hold on to it for as long. It's easy to let go and focus on other things.
"It would have been great to be in this head space a few years ago, but everyone gets to the point and I'm lucky I've found it in the last couple of years.
"My partner has been super supportive so I'll go into camp as long as the baby is healthy and happy."
Hurst was one of five current or former Capitals picked in Brondello's first Opals squad.
She will join former teammates Marianna Tolo, Abby Bishop, Alex Bunton and Canberra guard Lauren Mansfield at the training camp.
Hurst has spent the past two seasons playing in Turkey but is yet to decide if she will sign a new deal in Europe or weigh up a chance to reunite with the Capitals in the WNBL.
Hurst has spoken to Capitals coach Paul Goriss, who is also an Opals assistant, about her future and hopes to make a decision on her future in the coming weeks.
The 34-year-old started her basketball career when she was 16 and became a Canberra linchpin in the Capitals' championship era.
Hurst is the only player in Capitals history to be involved all seven Canberra championships. She has also played for Australia but thought her Opals chances had passed by.
"It was a bit of a shock to get the call ... but I'm going to take it with open arms and see what happens," Hurst said.
"It was easy to say yes with a fresh start. I'm going to jump in and gauge how it is and I think it's the right thing to do to give it a go.
"After missing out on [the world championships in 2014], I wasn't sure if I wanted to chase it or maximise my earning in Europe to set up my family for the future. I was at peace with that, that's why it's a shock."
Hurst has been playing for Turkish club Hatay, which is based just 20 kilometres from the Syrian border.
"It's been crazy, but I felt really safe where I was and where we lived," Hurst said.
"I didn't venture out too much in some places but I've really enjoyed it. The city I played for had great support so I wouldn't trade it for anything."
The Opals will train in Phoenix from June 25 to July 3 before a team is picked for the women's Asia Cup in India.
