Magbegor's mindset: 'Aggressive Ezi is a dominant Ezi'

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• It's a Cole World: Ezi Magbegor on blocks, winning & phenom Dominique Malonga

Australian Opals centre Ezi Magbegor anchors Seattle's defense and told Bec Cole she was willing to do the hard work to help the Storm will a WNBA championship in 2025.

"Just to stay steady for the team, especially defensively," Magbegor, 25, told It's a Cole World.

"Offensively, be aggressive — as our coach Pokey (Chatman) says: 'An aggressive Ezi is a dominant Ezi'.”

"I want to help lead us to a championship — whatever that takes.

"We’re building chemistry — it’s been up and down, but that’s the league. We’ve had big wins and tough losses."

The Storm is about to embark on a nine-day road trip that will help define their season: Atlanta Dream, New York Liberty, and Connecticut Sun.

"Our road trip is important, and we’re taking it one game at a time. I think our closeness will carry us through the season.‍

"Defense is huge for us. A lot of our players pride themselves on it. We focus on culture clips — things like sacrificial cuts, extra passes, championship contests.

"It’s about doing the little things.‍

"Anyone (teams) can compete on any night. But Minnesota and New York were finalists last year, so they’re definitely tough matchups.

"The league is deep, and that’s exciting."

Magbegor paid tribute to her family for the commitment they had for her and her career.

"They’ve made sacrifices, supported me through highs and lows," she said.

"My sister came to Prague, and my parents have visited Europe too. One of the most special moments was celebrating the Olympic bronze medal with them courtside, thanks to Curtis from Nike for organising tickets."

Magbegor is averaging 7.3 points per game, 6.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.1 blocks in 19 games for the 12-7 Storm this season.

She is in her sixth season with the Storm and is embracing the role of a veteran, even though she's just 25 years old, including mentoring rising French star Dominique Malonga.

"I’m a vet now — whether I like it or not," Magbegor said,

"I’ve been trying to lean into leadership. I’m not the loudest voice, but I lead by example and through relationships. Getting to know teammates — what they like, how they respond — helps me support them better.

"Dom’s been great. Our paths are similar — we were both drafted at 19. She’s already been a pro in Europe and with her national team.

"She learns quickly, adjusts fast, and she’s just a great human. I’ve loved helping her."

Magbegor is playing during an explosion in the popularity of the WNBA and she said she can feel the energy.

"The crowds! Places like Golden State, New York, Phoenix — the stadiums are packed," she declared.

"It’s great to feel that energy. I’ve seen the growth in Europe and in the WNBL too.

"It’s such an exciting time for women’s basketball."

Watch the full interview with Ezi Magbegor here.