OQTW - Gruda has only one birthday gift in mind

ANKARA (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament Women) - Birthday girl Sandrine Gruda is putting all celebrations on hold since there’s only one gift which the French star would like; namely to seal a coveted place at the London Games.

Whilst her team-mates were doing their best to make it a special day as she turned 25 years old, it’s the quarter-finals on Friday when the party will start if, as expected, France reach them and subsequently punch their ticket.

“I’m not a materialistic person and so for me, it’s not about diamonds or anything like that – the only one thing I want is to go to the Olympics” explained Gruda.

“I am very excited to be here in Ankara and hugely motivated to get to London. It’s just so much in my blood right now.”

Unfortunately she will have to contain herself a little longer since France must wait the extra day before they tip-off their Group D campaign with a game against Canada on Tuesday.

When they do eventually step out onto the court, Gruda agreed with the widespread assessment that as strong favourites and with so much talent at their disposal, the psychological dimension could be the most important aspect.

“Yes, it’s about our mentality and simply a case of being fully prepared for this” agreed Gruda.

“Succeed or fail, we must be able to look at ourselves and be sure we have all given one hundred percent on the court for each other.

“If we do get to London then we want to go and get a medal and everyone will need to look out for us.

“But, we need to get there first.”

FIBA