At 21, the Monivae College old collegian was the youngest player selected in the Opals squad in a surprising decision by coach Brendan Joyce, having spent much of her season with Bendigo Spirit on the bench.

Joyce defended the decision to select the rookie point guard, labelling her “one of the quickest and most explosive players” in the Women’s National Basketball League.

The rising star earned her spot in the Opals squad over Canberra’s Nat Hurst after impressive form at training camps and tours to Japan and Europe. 

Lavey attended Monivae College for years 7 to 10, before relocating to Bendigo at the end of 2008 to be closer to Melbourne, while she played with the Eltham Wildcats.

Monivae College deputy principal Jonathan Rowe said the school community was extremely proud of Lavey and her achievements in representing Australia. 

“Tessa and her family are very well regarded at Monivae. She is an inspiration to all young athletes in this region,” Rowe said.

“Everyone past and present at Monivae wishes her well with the Opals and we hope to see them playing for gold at the end of the championships.” 

The Opals have won their first two matches in the group stage of the world championships, defeating Cuba 90 to 57 and Korea 87 to 54. 

Lavey has made the most of her court time, scoring two points in the opening match against Cuba and eight points in 19 minutes of game time against Korea.

The Opals played off for automatic qualification for the quarter-finals against Belarus last night, with results unavailable before copy deadline.

Belarus also defeated Cuba and Korea but with much closer margins, pulling off a one-point victory against Cuba.

If defeated, Australia will front up to the loser of last night’s group D match between Serbia and China to fight for a finals berth early tomorrow morning AEST.

The quarter-finals begin on Friday.