The 18-year-old, from Somerset, took on extra responsibility this season stepping up to fill the gap after injury sidelined captain Lauren Mansfield for the early part of the season.

Phillips is balancing basketball with Health and Physical Education studies at university, playing with Devils Basketball Club in the Launceston women’s senior roster as well as with Somerset in the NWBL.

“Sami is a quiet achiever who leads by example and could one day captain the Tornadoes,” coach Reece Potter said.

“She was named most improved player last year and her greatest quality is without doubt her defensive tenacity and energy and she never gives the opposition point guards a break.

“Sami is improving her confidence on the offensive end and has been an important part of our guard rotation throughout the season.”