"Hello, how are you all" in Portuguese.

Well as most of you know, the World Championships in Brazil are coming to an end and my Mighty Aussie Girls are travelling in fine form. Mike T and Team USA are also on a roll and the chances of a gold medal showdown between us are becoming greater. Although, it will not be an easy task because what stands in the way of a shot at that Gold medal is the host nation: BRAZIL!! Last time we played them, it was in front of approximately 11,000 crazy Brazilian Fans yelling and screaming their heads off with drums being played from start to finish and so loud that you couldn't hear yourself think. The night after we played them I could still hear those drums, I felt as if I had been sitting next to speakers at a Pearl Jam concert. It was insane! Tomorrow will be a sell out; drums galore, a Brazilian team full of adrenalin and an Australian team ready to silence the stadium for a shot at the Holy Grail! (An opportunity that the Sun didn't get against Sacramento, which still disappoints me).

I saw Coach T in the stands last night. He was scouting our game, which to me felt kind of weird. I still feel like he is my coach and that he should still be on my side! It's funny knowing that technically, and I mean this in great fun and respect, he is the Enemy!! Hehe. I really hope we do get to play against the USA for a gold medal just so I can heckle Coach T from the sidelines!!

So far it has been so much fun playing against the best in the world, although I have so many bruises and a nice broken nose to go along with them. As an athlete it is such a privilege to be able to see the world while playing a game you absolutely love!! Don't get me wrong, I miss Australia and my family and can't wait; it's 4 more sleeps until I see them again. (Clearly I am not counting). But it has been fantastic here and hopefully Laura and I can take home a gold medal back to Adelaide with us!! You Americans have enough!! :)

NOW let's get on the topic which is probably one of the hottest in the tournament. The Australian BODY SUITS!! Also know as "jump suits", "tights", "full-length spandex", etc. It is very hard for me give my complete honest and opinion on it because I could get into some serious trouble! When I first put on a body suit I was 15 years old and I felt completely NAKED. It was so uncomfortable at first and it was hard to play and focus on the game rather than how high the bottom of the suit was creeping up. It was HARD work!! However, after years of playing in them you get over it and just play. At the end of the day you say to yourself, 'what would you do to play for your country?' And if part of the deal requires you to wear the suit I bet ANYONE would wear it!!

PS- I really hate them and would rather shorts and singlets like real basketball uniforms!! ;-)

Well, speaking of body suits I better jump in mine. Off to the game I go, to play Brazil!!

GO YOU OPALS!!

Best Wishes,