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HIGHLY-TOUTED Bendigo teen Jessie Rennie will make the transition from SEABL into the WNBL ranks when Bendigo Spirit play their opening practice match this Saturday.
The 16-year-old has been summoned into the line-up for the Spirit's encounter against Melbourne Boomers in Ballarat.
Rennie, who made her SEABL debut for the Bendigo Lady Braves this season, is one of three promising regional Victorian basketballers to be given the opportunity to train with the Spirit during pre-season.
The teenager was part of the club's development squad last season and, according to coach Simon Pritchard, has earned her chance against the Boomers.
"I am looking forward to testing Jessie this weekend," he said.
"She has been involved in high performance teams in Bendigo with the Lady Braves and Victoria Country Basketball.
"She has been doing the pre-season with us this year and has been able to hold her own so far."
Rennie will come up against the likes of former Spirit championship player Madeline Garrick and Boomers tough-nut Brittany Smart.
I am pinching myself that I am training with the Spirit now and I can't wait to hit the court on Saturday.
- Jess Rennie
She is coming off an eye-catching debut SEABL season during which she averaged four points per game with limited court-time.
Her four three-pointers on debut proved crucial in the Lady Braves defeating Ballarat Rush by two points iin the opening round of the season.
Rennie said she was grateful for the opportunities afforded her by Spirit coach Pritchard.
"I am pinching myself that I am training with the Spirit now and I can't wait to hit the court on Saturday," she said.
"I played first senior Braves game at the Ballarat Minerdome, so to play the first game of the Spiirt season is a real honour.
"I have learnt so much so far and can't wait to learn more."
For ticket details visit www.trybooking.com/215757, with a special 50 per cent discount for Spirut fans.