Currently living in Hamilton with Magic captain Laura Langman and her partner, Watts was playing state league in South Australia and training at the state's sports institute when it was suggested she should try out for Waikato Bay of Plenty.
"It was a massive step up for me and I knew I was going to have to work hard to get court time, but I've had a lot of help along the way and it is fantastic to be part of the Magic team," she said.
"It was a dream of mine to play in this competition and I wanted to make the most of every opportunity."
Watts says last week's extra-time victory over Northern Mystics was a "massive confidence booster" heading into the grand final.
"We have confidence in our processes and each other; we know what we need to do," she said.
Watts is likely to find herself partnered with formidable Vixens defender Julie Corletto, but she's up for the challenge.
"She's a magnificent athlete and I have a lot of respect for her - I'll need to bring my 'A' game. But you try not to think about who you're playing against," she says.
"You focus on what your next move will be, where the next pass is going, setting yourself up and being strong on the ball."
Watts has been a midcourter since her days as a South Australian age-group representative, but was primarily a wing defence before this year.
"You have to be very nippy at wing attack and I'm still learning, working on creating space and speed.
"It's a challenge but one I'm enjoying."
The bonus is playing alongside Langman, who she rates as "the best centre in the world" right now.
A physical education and English teacher-in-training, Watts put university on hold to come to New Zealand, and plans to finish her studies - although she's not sure when.
She'll head home to visit family, friends and her boyfriend after the transtasman competition but will be back to play for Waikato at this year's national provincial championships - and she hopes to return for Magic next season.
