time era, will carry Opals' hopes at Women's Basketball World Cup
Australian basketball player Ezi Magbegor is preparing to lead the Opals at the upcoming Women's Basketball World Cup in Berlin. Despite a season hampered by injuries, she remains a central figure for the team's championship aspirations.
Why it matters
Magbegor's role highlights the professionalization and global competitiveness of women's basketball as the sport continues to grow in popularity.
Ezi Magbegor is a key member of the Opals' squad, playing at her third World Cup. ( Getty Images: Mami Yasui )
The Opals begin their Women's Basketball World Cup campaign in Berlin this weekend, hoping for their first title since 2006.
Australia is ranked third in the world behind the USA and France.
The Opals' first game is against Puerto Rico on Friday night AEST.
Link copied Share Share article The Opals have produced a consistent pipeline of global superstars throughout their silverware-packed history, an impressive feat in one of the world's most competitive sports.
In the 2026 incarnation of the Opals, Ezi Magbegor, 27, carries that tag.
After bursting onto the international stage as a highly promising 18-year-old, she is now a defensive linchpin, a leader, and the type of player whose influence will likely dictate how far the Opals go at the Women's Basketball World Cup.
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