How many people can say they are living out their life-long dream?

Well for Crown Point's Cheridene Green, that's exactly what's happening.

Growing up near West Norwood, Green dreamt of playing basketball at the highest level.

Now she is playing for one of the most storied teams in all of America.

After spending two seasons tearing it up at a New York junior college, she transferred to the University of Tennessee, and in the process became the Lady Vols' first ever international signing.

"From the age of 12, I knew that I would be coming to America to play basketball," Green said.

"It is very different (compared to England).

"There are a lot more athletic and smart players over here.

"Also, it is very physical depending on what conference and level you choose to go to."

The 22-year-old's start at the school didn't go smoothly however.

She had to sit out her first season with a knee injury.

Now she's using that year on the sideline to her advantage.

"It was very difficult but I learned a lot while sitting out," Green said.

"I was able to watch the players and get used to how the SEC was.

"Also, coming into a new team may be hard for some people, but while sitting out I was able to get used to my teammates and also see what was expected by the coaches."

The Lady Vols are currently the sixth ranked team in the nation, having won 16 of its 17 games so far this season.

Green has played a big role in that record as well.

The forward is currently leading all bench players on her team in rebounds and is second among that group in points.

While the injury was a setback for Green, it's not been the hardest part about playing in the states.

"The toughest move would be leaving home and leaving my family," she said.

"Not being able to watch my nephew and nieces grow is hard, but I stay in contact with them as much as possible."

Having already represented Great Britain at under 20 level, she hopes to one day get back with the national team, while also pursing a career in basketball.

"I do plan on playing for GB again," she said.

"I’m just waiting for the right time, because coming off an injury it wouldn't be smart to jump back into everything too quickly.

"I'm taking my time and working on becoming stronger and better.

"I plan to have a long career aside of GB, so I want to make sure I'm healthy and achieving what I need to while being in America."