In a shock move last week, Dallas waived Phillips from its list, after a summer in which she swept all before her in a long-awaited debut season of top flight’s women’s football.

Phillips, 31, told the Crows website yesterday she would not pursue other WNBA opportunities, instead focusing on her young family and “the next stage of her professional career in sport” – including with the Opals and another season with Adelaide.

She said she had been considering her future in the US competition in any case.

“Most importantly, this gives me the first opportunity since last October to spend dedicated time with my young family at our home in Dallas,” Phillips said.

“After nine years, two titles and some great memories playing in the WNBA, I’ve now got the opportunity to start the next stage of my professional career in sport.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time with the Wings and want to thank them for their consideration and the professionalism they have shown throughout the process.”

Crows AFLW coach Bec Goddard said the club was “looking forward to Erin returning to Adelaide in November”.

“The physical break will no doubt benefit her body, allowing her to focus on potential future commitments with the Opals, as well as the AFLW,” she said.