PECS (EuroBasket Women 2015) - Ever since Nevena Jovanovic pulled on a Serbia national team vest three years ago, it has been an upward curve for the sharp-shooting guard.

Her introduction coincided with the rise to prominence of Serbia who have put themselves firmly on the women's basketball map - not least after debuting on the global stage last year in Turkey.

It's been a whirlwind career so far at the international level for Jovanovic, whose highlight was being able to step out in Istanbul and go up against the elite level players in FIBA's premier women's competition.

I was really happy and motivated to participate at the FIBA World Championship for Women. - Jovanovic

"It proved to be an opportunity to really check my limitations and I have to say, it was a great experience for me," declared the guard who was handed over 16 minutes per game on Turkish soil.

For any Serbia player right now, there is every need to dig deep and hold onto one of the coveted pegs in the locker room which they hope will have their name emblazoned on the back of one of the 12 hanging national team uniforms.

Jovanovic is acutely aware that if she wants to step out at her third successive competition and be part of EuroBasket Women 2015, then she has to maintain high standards.

The competition to grab a place to play at the tournament in Hungary and Romania is more intense than ever, with a glut of rising stars including the likes of Aleksandra Crvendakic and Dragana Stankovic beginning to knock loudly at the door.

"For sure this is only good for someone that has a healthy way of thinking, because by competing with strong players in preparation, we can only achieve an even higher level of performance," mused Jovanovic.

"At the end of the day, it means the team will be better.

"I am sure from this process, the coach will choose the best 12 for this competition."

Serbia will head to Szombathely and will tussle with Croatia, Great Britain, Latvia and Russia.

I am optimistic and I believe we have great chance for something good this year. - Jovanovic

"It is not that I underestimate our opponents, I just believe a lot in our team."

Jovanovic is well placed to consider what playing at the big event might be like.

She currently plays her club basketball in Hungary with Peac Pecs and is enjoying the challenge of honing her skills in one of the most competitive women’s leagues around.

"The league is strong and there are a lot of good teams, so it means each player can improve," she explained.

"My role this year is different as I have more responsibilities, but I like that and with every game, I am looking forward to help the team better than last year.

"Some people love to say that It could be better, but I am still happy with the team.

"We have had a lot of problems with injuries, but I hope that everyone is going to be ready for the Play Offs.

"This is my second season in Hungary and from what I have seen, the fans here really love and support woman's basketball," added Jovanovic.

"Especially our fans, because they support us every single game for the full 40 minutes - both home and away."

Serbia head to Hungary having reached the Semi-Finals of EuroBasket Women two years ago in France.

FIBA