USA need to fight for gold medal, says Griner

RIO DE JANEIRO (Rio 2016 Olympic Games) - The gold medal in the Women's Olympic Basketball Tournament is the only thing Brittney Griner is focused on these days.

As the USA prepare to take on Spain in Saturday's Final, the 2.03m center feels the realisation of her childhood dream is not far away from happening. 

But how the Americans can overcome a Spanish team that has been playing consistent basketball despite losing to the five-time defending champions in the Group Phase, is something that Griner admits will require a lot more than having a star-studded team.

"We have to come out with a little more energy," she said. "Nobody is gonna roll over and give it us, we got to fight for it... each possession... we got to take care of the ball every possession. We are gonna have to come out with a lot more intensity, especially in the defence end."

As well as beating them in the Group Phase, the USA also got the better of Spain in the Final of the 2014 FIBA Women's World Championship. So it's no surprise that they head into Saturday's game as favourites to win a sixth straight gold medal.

Griner can't wait for the Gold Medal Game.

"To be a part of that legacy, going for the sixth gold means everything to me and my family," she offered.

Ever since making her debut with the USA senior team in Turkey two years ago, the 25-year-old has had an impact, somehow and the Rio Olympics has to be the continuation of that process.

Griner was named to the All-Star team at 2014 FIBA  Women's World Championship

"It makes me feel very excited… my first Olympics.. we are in the Final, and I am looking forward to this game. Really just getting back to what we did every single game to get here," she said.

FIBA