The high school basketball season is nearing its end with state champions set to be crowned this weekend. For many, the offseason may be spent away from the game as players turn their attention to spring sports.

But for Rome Free Academy’s Natalia DiPaolo, it's an opportunity to get better as she sets her eyes on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent the U.S.A. in the United World Games this summer in Europe.

For DiPaolo, every opportunity she gets to step foot on a basketball court is never wasted.

“I loved competing in everything, and I just loved it," DiPaolo said of basketball. "It was just like the best thing, made me happy.”

No matter the time of year, in season or out of it, basketball is always on her mind.

“It's like I have too much time off, I'll be like, 'Oh, I really miss basketball,'" DiPaolo said. "I can't wait for it to start. I always try to get it done, do my best and just have fun.”

She's forging lifelong bonds with coaches and teammates. It’s a game that has given her some of the best memories so far with the biggest yet to come this upcoming summer. 

DiPaolo earned a roster spot on the 16U Team USA squad that is set to compete in the United World Games in June.

“I was super excited after he told me, like, I got like in one of the two last spots," DiPaolo said. "I was super excited after the meet and stuff, I was jumping up and down. I called my dad and everything. I was just super excited, just glad I could represent the U.S. It's super mindblowing. Like, it's exciting. Like I've been saying, it's just, I'm really grateful for it. It's just another level of experience I can do and everything.”

The chance to play overseas is something few in her age group get to accomplish. It’s an opportunity to showcase her talents on the international stage in hopes of pursuing a basketball career at the collegiate level.

“If you have the opportunity, take it," DiPaolo said. "Don't take it for granted and experience everything you can.”