It's the big one for the Opals tonight. We are defending world champs in this sport, but as far as I recall have never beaten the US in a major competition. The scene is set for a huge contest.

Coach Jan Stirling is a thorough and self-reliant tactician and will have some tricks up her sleeves tonight. I think the Opals need to put the emphasis on tempo control. The US are very physical and athletic and love moving quickly up and down the court. Our girls are physical too, but I think it's a case of maybe recognising that the Americans do it slightly better and taking measures to stilt their game.

Penny Taylor is braving her ankle injury and her presence and experience is very important to Australia. Even if she just puts in a few minutes it will be invaluable to our chances. To tell it plainly, Lauren Jackson also has to be brilliant. She hasn't disappointed so far and we need her to keep that form going tonight.

The men's final is tomorrow and while I think the Spanish are best equipped to take on the dream team, it's hard to see them causing an upset.