BASKETBALL
WNBA
By TOM HAYES
IT can all change with the click of a finger.
There has been a shake-up at the top level of women’s basketball in the US for our local exports, and it might not put a smile on everyone’s face.
Just days before the WNBA roster deadline, Traralgon’s Jade Melbourne was traded to the Washington Mystics for a 2025 third-round pick.
Melbourne was selected by Seattle Storm in the third round of the 2022 WNBA Draft, beginning her WNBA career in 2023 after opting to complete the then-current WNBL season.
She signed her contract with the Storm in February 2023, becoming the youngest player on a WNBA roster that year.
From her 29 games played at Seattle, Melbourne averaged just 10.6 minutes per game, 2.6 points, 1.2 assists and 1.2 rebounds.
On May 11, the Storm traded Melbourne for a pick in next year’s draft, sending her on her way to Washington.
In the space of 48 hours, Melbourne went from preparing to line-up for the Storm against Minnesota Lynx, to moving cities, joining a new team, and preparing to play against New York Liberty on opening night.
Although Melbourne did not feature in the Mystics’ 85 to 80 loss to New York on opening night, the last week has certainly been a whirlwind for her.
More is to come on Melbourne’s trade.
SPEAKING of whirlwinds, Moe’s Jaz Shelley has experienced one too.
Just weeks ago, Shelley was picked up by Phoenix Mercury in the 2024 WNBA Draft with Pick 29.
Shelley attended the Mercury’s preseason camp and featured heavily in their social posts. She appeared to be a popular addition to the squad, not only by players, but by fans alike.
Then on the day of the roster confirmations, Shelley was cut by Phoenix, leaving her without a team for the 2024 season.
It is unknown where Shelley’s next steps will be placed, but she has mentioned her desire to return to Australia and play in the WNBL.
The WNBA season began on Wednesday, May 15 (May 14 in the US), and will continue until October 20 at the latest, marked as the last possible finals date.
