Jade Melbourne is an Australian professional basketball player who currently plays guard for the Washington Mystics in the WNBA. Known for her speed, court vision, and leadership, Melbourne is a rising star in both international and professional basketball circles.
Early Life and Background
-
Full Name: Jade Melbourne
-
Date of Birth: August 18, 2002
-
Hometown: Traralgon, Victoria, Australia
-
Height: 5’10” (1.78 m)
-
Weight: 145 lbs (66 kg)
-
Position: Guard
-
Youth:
-
Grew up in regional Victoria, playing multiple sports before focusing on basketball
-
Made her mark through Australia’s junior pathways and the Australian Institute of Sport (Centre of Excellence)
-
WNBL debut at age 18 with the UC Capitals (Canberra) in 2020
-
College and Club Career
-
Did not play college basketball in the United States; developed in Australia
-
WNBL:
-
UC Capitals (2020–present):
-
Made professional debut at 18
-
Co-captain by her fourth season
-
Recognized for leadership and playmaking
-
-
-
WNBA:
-
Seattle Storm (2023):
-
Drafted 3rd round, 33rd overall in 2022
-
Made WNBA debut in 2023 as the league’s youngest player
-
First Australian ever drafted by the Seattle Storm
-
-
Washington Mystics (2024–present):
-
Traded to the Mystics in May 2024
-
2024 season: Averaged 5.8 points, 1.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists per game
-
Career averages (through 2024): 4.0 points, 1.3 rebounds, 1.4 assists per game
-
-
International and National Team Career
-
Australia U19 (2021):
-
Silver medal at FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup
-
Named to All-Star Five (12.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.4 assists per game)
-
-
Australia Opals (senior team):
-
Debut at 2021 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup (bronze medal)
-
Starting point guard at the 2024 Paris Olympics (bronze medal)
-
Named Rising Star of the tournament (Paris 2024)
-
Key contributor in Olympic qualifying
-
Achievements & Honors
-
Washington Mystics (WNBA, 2024–present)
-
Seattle Storm (WNBA, 2023)
-
UC Capitals (WNBL, 2020–present)
-
Bronze medalist, 2024 Paris Olympics (Opals)
-
Rising Star, 2024 Paris Olympics
-
Bronze medalist, 2021 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup
-
Silver medalist, 2021 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup
-
All-Star Five, 2021 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup
-
First Australian drafted by Seattle Storm
-
Youngest player in the WNBA (2023)
-
Co-captain, UC Capitals (WNBL)
Playing Profile
-
Strengths:
-
Exceptional speed and agility
-
Elite court vision and playmaking
-
Tenacious defense and disruptive on the perimeter
-
High basketball IQ and leadership
-
Clutch performer in big games
-
-
Style:
-
Aggressive, dynamic guard who excels in transition and half-court offense
-
Brings toughness, championship experience, and a team-first mentality
-
FAQs About Jade Melbourne
What position does Jade Melbourne play?
Guard
Which team does she play for?
Washington Mystics (WNBA)
How old is Jade Melbourne?
22 (born August 18, 2002)
What are her main achievements?
Olympic bronze medalist, Rising Star at 2024 Paris Olympics, bronze medalist at 2021 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, silver medalist at 2021 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup, All-Star Five at U19 World Cup, first Australian drafted by Seattle Storm, youngest player in the WNBA (2023)
What is her playing style?
Versatile, aggressive guard with elite speed, playmaking, and defense
Conclusion
Jade Melbourne is a dynamic and accomplished guard whose speed, court vision, and leadership have made her a rising star for the Washington Mystics and a key figure in Australian basketball.
(Age, statistics, and honors are as of June 2025.)
