University of Regina forward
Jade Belmore has set the Cougar women's basketball all-time scoring record with 1440 points, surpassing the previous mark of 1439 held by Cymone (Bouchard) Bernauer.
Belmore, a fifth-year forward from Regina, scored 22 points in Saturday's 101-48 win over Lethbridge to set the record. The record-breaking bucket came on an inbound play with 1:44 remaining in the third quarter, off an assist from
Cara Misskey.
"Cymone has been a role model for me and the whole Regina basketball community for years; to see her not only set that record but continue to give back has been really inspiring for me," Belmore said. "It means a lot to me that she was there to watch me break the record. I hope I can continue to give back the way she has - it makes you realize it's much bigger than basketball and there's a large community that is here to support you."
"Having such a close group of family, friends and teammates is amazing. There's a lot of people who helped me get here, and it doesn't go unnoticed."
Bernauer's tally of 1439 had stood since the 2003-04 season. Belmore surpassed it in 16 less games.
This accomplishment is the latest in Belmore's long list of accolades during her time at the University of Regina, as she also set the program's all-time rebounding record last season by passing Cougar great, Jackie Moore. Jade is a two-time Canada West First-Team All-Star, a U SPORTS First-Team All-Canadian (2023-24), the 2023-24 Canada West Player of the Year, and was named the Canada West Rookie of the Year in 2021-22. Off the court, she's also a four-time Academic All-Canadian.
Her impact on basketball extends far beyond the city of Regina. Jade spent the summer playing with Canada Basketball's 3x3 team, ultimately
winning a gold medal at the Junior Pan American Games in Asuncion, Paraguay in August. She has also recently represented Canada on the 3x3 Women's Series in Vienna and Edmonton.
"Coming to Cougar games as a kid, I always loved the sense of community and the atmosphere around the games," Belmore added. "Representing the Cougars on different stages means a lot to me because I know I have everyone's support. Being coached by Cougar athletes back in the day has always stuck with me, and it's really important for me to do the same for the next generation."
Belmore is already making a considerable impact in the community, and her work off the court is a further testament to who she is as a person.
"Jade is not only an incredible basketball player but a phenomenal representation of our program off the court," Cougar head coach
Michaela Kleisinger said. "She has spent countless hours giving back to the community, spending time coaching in multiple programs and speaking to students in schools. We're very fortunate to have someone like her representing Cougar basketball in the Regina community."
Belmore and the Cougars hit the road this weekend for a matchup with the Victoria Vikes. Their next home action is
November 28/29 against Mount Royal.