Amanda Jones
11 January 2018: The University of Canberra Capitals would like to congratulate Eziyoda Magbegor on being named the 2017/18 WNBL Betty Watson Rookie of the Year.
The award is voted by captains and coaches of each team at the end of the season, with Magbegor claiming 41 votes out of a possible 42 after playing 20 games this season.
Magbegor had an outstanding debut season in the WNBL, averaging 6.6 points and 3.8 rebounds a game. She ranked eighth in the league for average blocks and led the University of Canberra Capitals in the same department with 23 for the season.
She reached double-figures six times including a season-high 16 points against Bendigo in Round 8.
The personal accolade comes after Magbegor was named in the Australian Opals squad. She will join the team for its first training camp in Italy next month as the squad begins preparations for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
University of Canberra Capitals interim general manager Lucille Bailie said Magbegor should be proud of her achievements.
“Ezi had a standout season in the WNBL, she is a fantastic player and has exceptional athletic talent,” Ms Bailie said.
“She impressed teammates and fans alike every time she took to the court. Making her achievement more impressive is the fact that she juggled her commitments with the UC Capitals while completing Year 12 at UC Senior Secondary College Lake Ginninderra.”
The 18-year-old was also the recipient of the University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor’s Award for her efforts at school and on the court, and was named 2017/18 Capital on the Rise at the club’s end of season awards.
Point guard Maddison Rocci was the runner-up receiving 24 votes.
2017/18 Betty Watson Rookie of the Year Votes:
- Ezi Magbegor (41 votes) UC Capitals
- Maddison Rocci (24 votes) UC Capitals
- Kiera Rowe (14 votes) Dandenong Rangers
