"It's been very much a waiting game for the decision. I had a few places to choose from but the Texas college has such a high success rate and my whole family loved the coach there which was one of the deciding factors.
"Part of me is scared because it's such a huge move.
"It will be a real culture shock for me, but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am ready for new challenges.
"It will be hard leaving family and friends but if I want to be the best I can be this is the best thing to do."
And Flavell, the youngest of five siblings, has full backing from her family for the big move, although her father - Waiariki MP and Maori Party co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell will be sad to see "the baby of the family" fly the nest.
"I am very proud of her and she has all of our support. But of course I am sad that she will be so far away," he said.
"But this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and Matangiroa has to grab it with both hands."
"This has been her dream and now she can live that."
Flavell started playing when she was 5 . The talented youngster has previously been selected for the NZ Maori women's side and aims to make the NZ Tall Ferns team in the future.
And, after the success of Steven Adams, a long-term dream is one day playing in America's WNBA.
