Jessica Shepard is experiencing a significant statistical surge with the Dallas Wings, a performance that she and her teammates describe as a logical outcome rather than an anomaly. The 30-year-old forward has become a central figure in the frontcourt, tying WNBA career leader Alyssa Thomas for the most triple-doubles this season with five.
Her production includes averages of 14.3 points and 11.1 rebounds, making her one of only two players in the league, alongside Angel Reese, to average double figures in both categories.
Shepard’s role has expanded since joining Dallas in the offseason. Previously a point guard, she has transitioned into a 6-foot-4 forward position. During the free agency period, she noted that the presence of elite perimeter scorers Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale suggested a suitable fit for her skill set.
Since arriving, her scoring average has roughly doubled compared to her first five seasons in the league. She has recorded five consecutive double-doubles early in the year, including two triple-doubles, one of which featured a career-high 12 assists.
Bueckers cited Shepard’s previous contributions with the Minnesota Lynx as evidence of her readiness. Last season, Shepard recorded 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists in a win over Indiana while Napheesa Collier was unavailable. Bueckers stated that Shepard has consistently capitalized on opportunities, describing her as a winner who embraced her role in Minnesota before becoming the hub of the Dallas offense.
Assistant coach Mike Neighbors, who has known Shepard since her high school days in Nebraska, attributed her current success to a combination of maturity, conditioning, and the right system. He noted that her voice and understanding of the game have aligned with the team's needs under first-year coach Jose Fernandez.
