Star Guard Cleared for Return as Capitals Eye Playoff Spot
Canberra Capitals' WNBL finals aspirations have received a significant lift with the news that star guard Jade Melbourne has been medically cleared to make her comeback from surgery. Melbourne, who has been sidelined for a month due to a finger injury, is set to return to the court ahead of Friday night's crucial clash against the Bendigo Spirit.
Coach's Cautious Approach Amid Long-Term Considerations
Head coach Paul Goriss has maintained a patient stance regarding Melbourne's recovery, emphasising that the club would not rush her return despite the team's precarious position in the playoff race. With both the upcoming WNBA season and FIBA World Cup on the horizon, Goriss acknowledged the need to balance immediate team needs with Melbourne's long-term career prospects.
"The hand has healed really well," Goriss confirmed. "It's not a fitness thing, it's more about how her hand can handle her falling on it, getting hit on a screen and those kinds of things."
Melbourne successfully completed a fitness test on Thursday, paving the way for her first appearance in four weeks. Her return comes at a critical juncture for the Capitals, whose playoff chances may hinge on their final regular season game scheduled for February 3.
Roster Reshuffles and Silver Linings
The Capitals have faced numerous roster challenges throughout the season, with Melbourne's absence forcing the club to bring in former guard Tahlia Tupaea on an injury cover contract. Unfortunately, Tupaea's return was short-lived as she suffered a concussion in her first game back, ending her stint with the team.
Further complications arose with Sara Blicavs' sudden departure, prompting the arrival of Emme Shearer to fill the gap. Despite these disruptions, Goriss has identified unexpected benefits from the team's adversity.
"I think the group has done great," Goriss reflected. "Isa [Brancatisano] and Jayda [Clark] have stood up while Jade has been out, and without Sara being here, it has helped [Nyadiew Puoch] flourish a little bit more because the ball is now back in her hands a bit more."
Daunting Final Stretch Ahead
The Capitals face a challenging conclusion to their regular season, with back-to-back games against second-placed Bendigo followed by a matchup with top-seeded Townsville. They will then close out their campaign with two home games against Southside and Geelong.
Goriss remains philosophical about the team's injury-plagued season, noting that the Capitals have only had two or three games with their full healthy roster available. "It's good and it's bad, but it's been a blessing that a lot of people have got an opportunity," he observed.
The coach has instilled a resilient mindset within the squad, emphasising adaptability over excuses. "Next person up, we move along with who we've got. That's it. We don't want to get caught up with excuses. I won't have that," Goriss stated firmly.
With Melbourne's return providing both a skill boost and a psychological lift, the Capitals now face their final regular season matches with renewed optimism about their playoff prospects.
