BENDIGO Spirit point guard Tessa Lavey has committed to the two-time defending WNBL champions for the next two seasons.
Regarded as one of the brightest up and coming point guards in Australia, Lavey this week put pen to paper as the club prepares to defend its 2013/14 premiership.
The point guard has committed to a second season after playing 17 games in her debut year.
The 21-year-old Swan Hill junior has had a particularly busy off-season, being named in the Opals squad and attending numerous Opals camps as the team prepared for the upcoming FIBA World Championships for Women.
Lavey also earned a spot on the Basketball Australia National Centre of Excellence squad where she averaged more than 14 points, four rebounds and four assists per game in the team’s abbreviated SEABL fixture.
Spirit coach Bernie Harrower said he was excited to gain the signature of such an exciting young player who has the potential to make a real difference on court.
“Tessa has such a bright future ahead of her and we’re looking forward to her returning and continuing to improve and develop her game,” Harrower said.
“Being a part of an Opals squad when you’re that young is such a great opportunity, and she’s the type of kid that will make the most of it.”
“We’re looking forward to Tessa taking another step forward for the Spirit this year and show what she can do at this level.”
Lavey said returning to Bendigo was a perfect situation to continue her development as a player.
“I learnt so much from playing with Kristi and the other girls last year, and I’m looking forward to re-joining the team and hopefully competing for another championship,” Lavey said.
“The Spirit has such a great group that plays well together and really brings out the best in everyone.”
“I’m hoping to keep improving my game and contribute from the point guard spot any way that I can.”
Lavey will join the Spirit after completing further work with the Opals and at the BA Centre of Excellence.
