Melbourne steers Caps' recruitment drive

As she enters her sixth season with the UC Capitals, Jade Melbourne has also taken on the role of team recruiter.

Despite playing for the Washington Mystics in the WNBA, the Caps were never too far from Melbourne's mind, with her and coach Paul Gorris in regular contact regarding the make-up of the team's WNBL26 roster.

“Much appreciation to Goz (Gorris), ultimately he’s put that trust in me to kind of run the team," Melbourne said to CODE Sports.

A big part of that was Melbourne being 'sick of losing' in the Nation's Capital.

“I’ve loved every teammate that I’ve had the opportunity to play with at the Caps, but I’m also someone that’s been sick of losing the last few years,” Melbourne said.

“I really want to be in a team that’s contending for finals."

Two high-profile players that the 23-year-old, who won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, recruited heavily were Opals pair Zitina Aokuso and Sara Blicavs, regularly texting them and letting them know 'how good Canberra was'.

Her off-court work paid off, with both putting pen to paper with the Caps, along with French international and former WNBA player Kadiatou Sissoko.

“I think it’s important for me to reach out to them and make them feel welcome immediately," Melbourne said.

Other off-season additions for the nine-time champions include Isa Brancatisano, Teige Morrell, Zara Russell, Tayha Watkins and Sharn Hayward, while the likes of Nyadiew Puoch, Nicole Munger, Monique Bobongie, Jayda Clark and Abby Solday are all returning from last season.

The Caps tip-off their campaign with the WNBL's massive season-opener against Southside Melbourne at John Cain Arena from 2pm AEDT on Saturday.

Tickets to the John Cain Arena clash, which will also be broadcast live on ESPN and 9GO!, are available here.

Read the full story here >> How UC Capitals captain Jade Melbourne played General Manager this offseason