A historic Ezi Magbegor performance has lifted Australia past an inspired Belgium and back onto the Olympic podium, with a win in the bronze medal match.

Magbegor scored 30 points on 71 per cent shooting and added 13 rebounds, three blocks, three assists and two steals in one of the great Olympic basketball performances.

According to FIBA, it’s the most efficient performance in Olympic history. Magbegor’s efficiency number, a composition of all her positive and negative statistics, was 45.

In comparison, NBA megastars Stephen Curry (38) and LeBron James (33) had lesser efficiency numbers for their match-winning performances in the US’ semi-final win over Serbia in men’s basketball.

“I’m so glad she had this platform for people to see just how incredible she is,” Lauren Jackson said of Magbegor.

“She is the centrepiece of this team and people have seen it now, everyone knows what she can do.

“No one can stop her. For Ez it’s believing in herself and tonight she proved to herself she can carry a team.

“That’s a way to lead; pick up a team, put them on your shoulders and say; ‘We’re winning this bronze medal’.”

Seattle Storm star Magbegor had played a bit-part role as the team’s form slowly improved.

On Sunday in front of a partisan Belgian crowd, she was central to it all, bossing the paint at both ends with rebounds and spins to the basket as the lead changed hands 15 times.

“I’m so proud of this team, a lot of people did such a great job of carrying us throughout the tournament and being in my ear,” Magbegor said.

“It wasn’t my greatest tournament on an individual level ... I just knew I needed to do everything to show up.

“Issy [Borlase] was fearless ... Jade [Melbourne] as well. I’m so excited to play with them for years to come.

“And whether this is her [Jackson’s] last game or not, it was great to have her on our team, whether she was on the floor or not. Her aura, vibe, was felt.”

AAP with Roy Ward