Opals rule out Magbegor, Smith and Melbourne for Italy qualifier

Melbourne is sidelined by illness.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 101 min read

No Ezi, No Alanna Smith and also no Jade Melbourne (sickness) tonight for the Opals. The injury woes continue for Bronde Via @alexaphilippou on X

What happened: Australia will face Italy without Ezi Magbegor, Alanna Smith or Jade Melbourne on Thursday night. Melbourne is out with sickness, while the absences extend the Opals’ depleted lineup.

Why it matters: The lineup loses its captain and two key contributors for a qualification game. The Ezi Magbegor absence is especially significant after her recent injury concern.

By the numbers: Magbegor had been averaging 15.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2 assists in the tournament.

What to watch: Watch how Sandy Brondello reshapes Australia’s rotation against Italy.

Sources

@alexaphilippou 2026-09-10T19:06:25.301388+00:00

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Opals rule out Magbegor, Smith and Melbourne for Italy qualifier

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