WNBL’s Capitals sign NBL1 players Taia, Melbourne

The Canberra Capitals have completed their roster for the 2020 WNBL season by signing NBL1 players Ashley Taia and Jade Melbourne.

Taia plays for the Logan Thunder in NBL1 North and is coming off a championship winning QSL season with the Thunder, averaging 11.3 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.

“I got a lot of confidence contributing to a title up in Queensland this offseason so I am now looking forward to testing myself further in the WNBL,” Taia said via the Capitals’ website.

“The game is much faster and the athletes are much better and I think that suits me nicely. I’m looking to contribute to the team and look forward to being a part of the culture of the UC Capitals.”

Melbourne played for Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence in the 2019 NBL1 South season, amassing 11.4 points and 4.3 rebounds per game.

“I’m super excited to have the opportunity to play in the WNBL at such a young age,” Melbourne said.

“It will give me the experience I need looking forward to college and to have that opportunity with the current champions should speed up my development.

“Getting to learn in the environment that the Capitals provide, and to learn from leaders and veterans such as (Marianna) Tolo and Kelsey (Griffin) is amazing.”

Melbourne will begin her college career next year with Arizona State.