THANK YOU, JADE MELBOURNE

Few players have embodied the spirit of the UC Capitals quite like Jade Melbourne.

After six seasons in Capitals colours, Melbourne leaves behind a legacy defined by achievement, growth and connection to the Canberra community.

From a teenage debutant to an Australian Opal and WNBA starter, she has inspired teammates, fans and aspiring basketballers through her passion, professionalism and pride in representing Canberra.

“I walked into the Caps as an eager 18-year-old, since then I’ve grown so much and had six of the most amazing years representing the UC Caps,” Melbourne said.

“As I continue to pursue my goals as a player, I’ve decided to take on a new opportunity and create a new chapter in my basketball journey with another WNBL team. The love and support night in and night out from the Canberra fans has been second to none. I’ll miss the energy of AIS Arena but look forward to seeing you all throughout the season.

“I wouldn’t be the person and the player that I am today without the club, the people, and the franchise. I truly mean that I am forever grateful to be a UC Capital,” she said.

UC Capitals Executive General Manager Christy Collier-Hill said Melbourne's influence extends far beyond her achievements on the court.

"Jade has been an incredible representative of the UC Capitals for six seasons, and we've had the privilege of watching her grow from a talented teenager into one of Australia's premier basketballers," Collier-Hill said.

"While we're naturally disappointed to see her move on, we're immensely proud of everything she has achieved in Capitals colours and grateful for the impact she's had on our club, our members and the Canberra community.

"Jade's professionalism, competitiveness and commitment to continuous improvement have set a standard for those around her, and she has inspired countless young players to dream big.

"On behalf of everyone at the UC Capitals, we thank Jade for her outstanding contribution to our club and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career. She will always be part of the Capitals family," Collier-Hill said.

Melbourne’s WNBL career has been a whirlwind since debuting during the 2020 Hub season while completing high school. She has navigated the challenges of pandemic era finals, earned a place in the club’s leadership group at just 20-years-old, achieved two career triple-doubles, first chipped her tooth, celebrated her 100th WNBL game, and went on to establish herself as one of the league’s most exciting and dynamic players.

Along the way, she reached major milestones including her first Australian Opals selection, getting drafted to the WNBA, debuting with the Seattle Storm, and winning an Olympic medal.

Beyond her performances on game day, Melbourne embraced her role as a leader and role model within the Canberra community. Whether visiting schools, engaging with young basketballers, attending club events or making time for supporters, she represented the Capitals with enthusiasm and generosity.

Her infectious personality, positive energy, sense of humour, and ability to connect with people has left a lasting impression on everyone connected to the Capitals.

Melbourne's impact on the Capitals record books is equally impressive. Across 107 games, she has amassed 1,357 points to rank 11th in club history for all-time points scored and sits third for career club assists, trailing only Capitals legends Nat Hurst and Kellie Abrams.

In the final game of the club's 40th anniversary season, Melbourne further etched her name into Capitals record books with a 40-point performance against the Bendigo Spirit, becoming just the third Cap in club history to score 40 or more points in a game alongside Alana Beard and Lauren Jackson.

A two-time WNBL Fan MVP and three-time club MVP, Melbourne's achievements reflect not only her individual talent but also the respect and admiration she earned from teammates, coaches, staff and supporters throughout her career.

Melbourne’s impact will be remembered not only through the records she set and the milestones she achieved, but through the connections she built, the joy she brought to the community and the inspiration she provided to the next generation of Canberra basketballers.

The UC Capitals thank Jade for six unforgettable seasons and wish her every success in the next chapter of her basketball journey.

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