ARLINGTON, Texas – The Dallas Wings are entering the final week of the regular season with a clear sense of purpose, thanks in large part to forward Jessica Shepard’s breakout performance. The 30‑year‑old, a first‑time All‑Star, has become a triple‑double machine, tying WNBA legend Alyssa Thomas for the most triple‑doubles this season with five.
From point guard to dominant forward
Shepard began her career as a point guard before growing into a 6‑foot‑4 forward, a transition that has paid dividends for the Wings. She has essentially doubled her scoring average from her first five WNBA seasons, now posting 14.3 points and 11.1 rebounds per game as the team prepares for its regular‑season finale in Seattle.
Choosing the right fit
When Shepard explored free agency in the offseason, she was drawn to a roster featuring elite perimeter scorers Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale. “I knew what I was capable of doing since I’ve been a pro,” Shepard said. “Just being in the right situation, having people around you that support you, that believe in you, makes a huge difference.”
Teammates and coaches praise her impact
Bueckers recalled Shepard’s first career triple‑double with Minnesota, noting the forward’s ability to step up when star forward Napheesa Collier was out. “She bought into her role in Minnesota, did what she did and contributed to a lot of success,” Bueckers said. “Her getting the opportunity to come here and be the hub … she’s just a winner through and through.”
Assistant coach Mike Neighbors, who has known Shepard since her Nebraska days, highlighted the convergence of factors that have propelled her forward. “Her mentality, her conditioning, her understanding, her maturity, her voice – all those things have come together,” he said. “Kind of perfect time, perfect place, the right players, the right coach, the right system, but she was ready for that.”
Overcoming adversity
Shepard’s journey has not been without setbacks. She tore the ACL in her right knee early in her rookie season and missed the pandemic‑shortened 2020 campaign. Limited minutes and a modest role followed, but she persisted, eventually becoming a key contributor for the Lynx and later the Wings.
Her resilience paid off as the Wings clinched a playoff spot, giving Shepard her first chance to lead a team in the postseason. “When you see a player like that start to blossom, you just want to help them any way you can,” Neighbors added.
Looking ahead
With the Wings set to face Seattle in the regular‑season finale, Shepard’s consistent double‑figure production in points and rebounds positions her as a focal point for the team’s playoff aspirations. Fans in the Dallas‑Fort Worth area can expect to see her continue to drive the Wings’ offense and provide a strong presence on the boards.
As the Wings prepare for the postseason, Shepard’s story underscores the importance of finding the right environment, supportive teammates and a coach who believes in maximizing each player’s potential. Her rise serves as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes throughout Texas and beyond.
Original reporting: Fort Worth, TX Sports (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
