Alice Kunek was slammed by teammate Liz Cambage on social media for featuring in a photograph with her face painted brown, but counselling and two overseas tours has allowed the two to mend their relationships and solidify team unity.

"We dealt with that internally, we had a sports psychologist come in and help assist us with thrashing that out," said Joyce. "And I think our team chemistry from that point of view has been great."

"I think it was great for all parties to be involved and express their opinions and emotions."

Jackson has been synonymous with Australian basketball for the last two decades, and while Joyce admits she will be dearly missed, it is time for the group to push on without her.

"Right at the beginning we knew we had to provide opportunities for these other players to gain international experience and confidence and that's what we've done," he said.

"I think we're ready," he said. "It's up to the group to create their own legacy and I think they've done the work to do that."

Capitals recruit and national star Marianna Tolo said the group's success at the 2014 world championships without Jackson is proof there is depth and talent in the squad.

"We're not really focusing on that anymore," she said. "Unfortunately Lauren went down but it was going to happen at some time anyway and it's time we move on as Opals without her and create our own history."

Tolo recently returned from a knee reconstruction with a limited role on the Opals' tour of Europe and Joyce said her professionalism will be a significant boost for the reigning bronze medallists.

"We always knew Marianna would make it back because she's one of the most dedicated players," he said. "If you look at Marianna right now you wouldn't have known she's come off an injury, she's one of the best conditioned athletes."

Another Capitals star, Stephanie Talbot, is staking her claim for selection based on her important defensive role.

"Everyone talks about how we got to score against teams but we're not beating anyone unless we defend, and Steph Talbot has shown she can be a world-class defender and that's certainly what we've seen with Steph during these tours."

The Opals face the daunting task of playing host nation Brazil in the opening game before backing up the very next day to take on France, but Joyce is confident the squad is prepared.

"The motto for us hasn't changed from the world championships - we'll respect everybody but fear nobody."