Ezi Magbegor ruled out of WNBA and World Cup with ACL injury

Australian basketball player Ezi Magbegor has been ruled out of the remainder of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup and the WNBA season after tearing her ACL. The injury occurred during Australia’s 82-80 victory over Italy, a game that secured the Opals' advancement to the quarterfinals.

Magbegor, a center for the Seattle Storm, will require surgery to address the injury. The setback follows a difficult season for the 27-year-old, who had already missed significant time due to a foot injury and a facial fracture. Recovery from an ACL injury typically requires nine to 12 months, which may impact her availability for the start of the 2027 WNBA season.

Following the injury, Australia was subsequently eliminated from the tournament after losing to Spain 89-66. Basketball Australia released a statement expressing support for Magbegor, noting her character and resilience during her recovery period.