Was this Ezi Magbegor's best game yet for the Opals?

BELEM (Brazil) - The fans in Belem roared from the stands as Brazil chipped away at Australia's 14-point lead, but Ezi Magbegor made sure the Opals stayed on top at the end.

The opening performance at the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 by the 24-year-old now stands as one of her best as a member of the Australian Opals.

 

 

Magbegor recorded 18 points on 7-9 shooting, 7 rebounds, and 4 blocks as Australia outlasted Brazil in an exciting and important game, 60-55. It was the offense that got things going for the 1.93M (6'4") forward to start the game, as she knocked down all of her first 7 field-goal attempts. She was not able to stay perfect, however, missing her last two shots with three minutes left in a tight game.

Instead, she took over on the defensive end, blocking two shots in the final minute to keep her team's lead safe.

 

While Magbegor's impact in this game might be difficult to measure, it is reflected to a certain level in her EFF rating of 29. The rising star has had plenty of good games padded in her resume, but this one is certainly among one of her best.

Ezi Magbegor's Top 5 Games in EFF

Opponent	Competition	PTS	FG	REB	BLK	EFF
vs BRA	WOQT 2024	18	7-9	7	4	29
vs CAN	WWC 2022	16	6-10	7	5	27
vs PHI	Women's Asia Cup 2019	18	8-10	6	3	27
vs IND	WOPQT 2019	16	8-12	9	4	27
vs BEL	Tokyo Olympics	20	9-15	8	2	21

 

The WOQTs Smart Player Power Rankings, as published prior to the competition's commencement, has been spot on for most of the part. Magbegor's game proves she is more than worthy of being ranked 5th so far and might even be making a case for being considered higher.

Does the mighty Opal have more games like this left in her tank with clashes against Serbia and Germany on the schedule?

FIBA