Writing in her exclusive Bendigo Advertiser column, Harrower, who celebrated her 39th birthday on Tuesday, admitted retirement has been on her mind.

“The honest answer is I won’t make a decision on my future until later in the year,’’ Harrower wrote.

“I haven’t decided, but I must admit I’m probably closer to retiring than I was this time last year.

“Last year I felt I was playing very well and could match it with anyone.

“The Spirit recruited really well and I wanted to come back and play with this group.

“I’m so glad I came back to play, but I know that I have struggled a bit this year – especially with my shot.

“I’ve felt like at times that training has become a grind. Don’t get me wrong, I love playing basketball, I love the game and being part of the Spirit.

“I’m not going to make this decision lightly.”

Harrower’s points production of 8.7 points per game this season is down on her career average of 13.1.

However, she’s had a career best season as far as assists is concerned, averaging 8.1 per game.

Dandenong Rangers coach Mark Wright said Harrower’s influence on games remained strong.

“Kristi can have games that some people would class as not her best games, but she still makes the big plays at the right time,’’ Wright said.

“Her leadership is outstanding and that can’t be measured in points.”

A win in Sunday’s grand final against Townsville would be a fitting finale for Harrower.

The point guard is one of Australia’s greatest female basketballers having won three Olympic silver medals, an Olympic bronze medal and a world championship gold medal.

 "Basketball has been my life. I’ve had a basketball in my hand since I was three,'' Harrower wrote in her column.

"If I was struggling with injuries and struggling to contribute to the Spirit, the decision would be easy.

"But I can still play 35-40 minutes per game and play well. That’s what makes it hard and that’s why I’ll be taking my time to make the final decision."