THAILAND (Bangkok) -  Tournament ambassador Jenni Screen is counting down the days to the start of the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2019 after excitement levels rose in the wake of the recent draw.

The former Opals' star is looking forward to the event tipping off in July and has urged those participating to make the most of what lies in their respective paths when they touch down in the Thai capital.

"My one take home advice to the players would be to lap it up and use the opportunity that they have to represent their country on the world stage," stressed the two-time Olympian.

"You can also immerse yourself in the culture of a country that you may not be familiar with and perhaps develop some lifelong friendships - not only with people within your own teams, but those from other countries.

"So just smile, enjoy it and maybe get some wins along the way."

She added: "It's a great stepping stone that gives young players exposure to this great game and possible career opportunities. But, also life experiences they might otherwise never have had, in terms of travelling and seeing the world.

"It also continues a dream that a young player might have, just like I had, when I was also aspiring to do something in basketball."

Screen was speaking from experience, having featured at this event back in 2001, in a tournament that set her on the path to greater things.

She recalled: "For me, there is never a bad experience when you are getting to play for your country. The U19 tournament was my first time wearing green and gold. It gave  me an insight into possibly having a career as a female athlete and travelling the world playing the great game that is basketball.

"My memories of what is now almost 20 years ago, are the friendships that I have made and also playing in front of almost 7,000 people in Czech Republic - and beating them. We were actually the only team to beat them, since they went on to win the tournament.

"It was pretty phenomenal and other than that, just wearing the uniform and the pride and privilege of doing that."

In her new role, Screen is ready to roll up her sleeves and make the most of being able to pass on her expertise to the players who will be competing in Bangkok - as well as having fun watching the action unfold.

"It is an honor to be named as an ambassador and I hope when I go to the event, to create some relationships and run some workshops and give them some insights," she revealed.

"It gives me another platform to give something back to the sport that gave me so much.

"Bangkok is also a great city and the facilities and the preparation is second to none. It is a very welcoming country, with people who like to have fun and there should be good crowds and interest as we all know how popular basketball is in Asia.

"I am excited to see some really good teams including USA and my own Australia of course. The dark horses are probably Germany, while Spain are usually a classy outfit and so I expect they will be the top 3-4 teams.

"However, we saw what can happen at these events back in 2017 when Russia toppled USA in Udine, so you never know and every game will matter," concluded Screen.

FIBA