WNBA Draft: Rising Aussie star Jade Melbourne joins big Aussie contingent at Seattle Storm

Of all the well wishes Jade Melbourne received after being drafted into the WNBA by Seattle Storm, one from a legendary future teammate meant more than any other.

From Traralgon via Canberra, Melbourne is bound for Seattle, Victorian basketball star Jade Melbourne that is.

The 19-year-old, who won a bronze medal with the Opals at last year’s FIBA Asia Cup and has played the last two WNBL seasons for Canberra, was selected by the Seattle Storm with pick 33 in Tuesday’s WNBA draft.

The 178cm guard will join fellow Aussies Ezi Magbegor and Steph Talbot at the team which has a proud history of recruiting Australians and retired Lauren Jackson’s famous No.15 singlet in 2016.

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Jade Melbourne has played the last two seasons in the WNBL with Canberra Capitals.

Melbourne watched the draft with family and friends at her family’s Gippsland hotel, The Crown.

“They don’t announce the third round on TV so all of a sudden we saw my name appear on the screen and we all screamed and celebrated,” she said.

“I’ve had two goals ever since I was a little and they were to play for the Opals and be drafted to the WNBA. It’s just the beginning, but I guess I’ve done alright.”

Melbourne’s phone went into overdrive with well wishes following the draft, the highlight came courtesy of one of the best players to ever play the game, five-time Olympic gold medallist and WNBA superstar Sue Bird.

“Sue Bird just mentioned me in her Instagram story, I was fan girling,” Melbourne laughed.

The guard will be suited to the WNBA.

Athleticism is key for the 19-year-old.

“It’s hard to believe I’ve been drafted to the team she’s won four championships with and been a legend for.”

Canberra coach Paul Goriss, who will be an assistant coach at Atlanta Dream this WNBA season, says Melbourne is one of Australian basketball’s brightest stars.

“Jade is quick, athletic and talented. She likes to play in transition, which suits the WNBA’s style of game,” he said.

“Seattle gets someone that will come in, work hard and soak up all the learning. She genuinely loves the game, comes to practice with a smile on her face every day. They get a great person and a kid who will come in and be a great teammate.”

Perth forward Amy Atwell, who attended the University of Hawaii and was named Big West player of year, was selected by Los Angeles Sparks with pick 27.