WNBA star Ezi Magbegor suffered a devastating torn ACL injury on Wednesday during the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. Australia faced Italy that night, and Magbegor went down midway through the first quarter. Fans erupted online about the season-ending injury.
Magbegor’s teammates had to help her go back to the locker room. She did not play again despite sitting on the bench during the second quarter. The frontcourt star will miss the remainder of the 2026 season due to an injury, the Seattle Storm announced on Thursday.
“Seattle Storm forward/center Ezi Magbegor suffered a torn right anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) Wednesday during Australia’s qualifying final against Italy in the 2026 FIBA World Cup and will miss the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season,” the Storm announced.
After Magbegor’s devastating injury, fans argued that playing in international games is the reason why some stars like A’ja Wilson opt out. Playing in non-WNBA games carries a risk that may impact their availability.
“This is why some stars like A’ja Wilson WISELY choose to skip this event — especially when they’re not 100%,” a fan said.
“D**n this late in the season makes it difficult to play all next year,” another fan commented.
“And they had the nerve to ask why A’ja sat out this meaningless tournament,” one fan said.
More fans commented about the risk of playing in FIBA tournaments.
“But A’ja was crazy for resting,” someone commented.
“Idk who needs to hear this, but the World Cup isn’t worth it,” a comment read.
“FIBA meaningless games and now your 1.2 million dollar player probably out for 2027 also,” one fan commented.
Why Did WNBA Star A’ja Wilson Skip the FIBA World Cup Tournament?
Before Team USA started their FIBA World Cup campaign, A’ja Wilson was initially announced to the roster. However, the Las Vegas Aces star chose not to carry on due to health concerns. According to reports, the four-time WNBA MVP wanted to use the FIBA break to heal her injuries.
Wilson had dealt with back injuries before the break, and she wanted to be in the best shape since the playoffs are near.
“Wilson, the four-time WNBA MVP, has not been 100% for some time, a source close to the situation told ESPN’s Alexa Philippou, and there was a concern that the World Cup’s grueling schedule could exacerbate the situation,” ESPN reported.
Wilson is the Aces’ best player, and they need her to be in tip-top shape. The postseason will begin on September 27, and Las Vegas is third in the standings with a 27-13 record.
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Edited by Reign Amurao
