Despite back-to-back home losses, coach Derrick Washington remains upbeat and said the 17-year-old is among several indicators of a bright future for the NBL1 newcomers.

"She's really stepping up and playing very well," Washington said of the North-West Coaster, who has played for Ulverstone and Latrobe in the NWBU.

"Sarah did a great pre-season, has been learning lots and just wants to get better. She's a hard worker and I've been very impressed with her. 

"She brings a lot of great transition from defence and is really aggressive to the basket. She is a great asset to the team and will have a good year."

O'Neill was at her best in Saturday's nail-biting loss to Nunawading Spectres with 21 points including a trio of three-pointers.

That two-point loss followed a six-point deficit against Southern Sabres during which the Torns have only lost three of the eight quarters.

"Both games could have gone either way," Washington said.

"On Saturday, we did not get the win but we did get better. We were that close to getting the win and overall I'm very proud of the ladies.

"We're a brand new team trying to find each other. It's going to take a few more games and going to Hobart is a big test but we should be fine."

The Torns embark on an extended absence from their home court beginning with the first state derby against a Hobart Huskies side buoyant after winning both opening fixtures.

However, WNBA commitments will deprive the newly-formed outfit of Cayla George who has opened with 24 points and 18 rebounds across the opening two rounds of the season.

Former Torn Ellie Collins will be reunited with some familiar faces on Saturday having averaged 15 points and six rebounds to start the campaign.

The Tornadoes and Huskies tip-off at 6pm at Kingborough Sports Centre followed by the NW Thunder and Huskies men at 8pm.