ARLINGTON, Texas — Jessica Shepard’s breakout season has been a driving force behind the Dallas Wings’ unexpected return to the WNBA playoffs, marking a significant turnaround for a team that won just 10 games a year ago. The 6-foot-4 forward, known for her versatility on the court, has emerged as a key player in a Dallas roster reshaped under new head coach Jose Fernandez.
Shepard, who signed a two-year, $2.05 million contract with the Wings in April, has been instrumental in the team’s success. Her all-around performance this season included an average of 14.5 points, 11 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, along with a league-leading six triple-doubles. Her contributions have helped the Wings reach the postseason for the first time since 2023, where they are currently tied 1-1 with the Golden State Valkyries in their playoff series.
The transformation coincides with Dallas’s hiring of Fernandez in late 2025, a coach known for utilizing a European-style system emphasizing skill across all positions and minimizing reliance on traditional post play. Fernandez also made a strategic decision during the 2026 draft, selecting shooting guard Azzi Fudd with the No. 1 pick rather than opting for a point guard, aiming to reduce the playmaking burden on established stars Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale.
Wings general manager Curt Miller praised Shepard’s unique role in the evolving offense, citing her ability to handle the ball and create plays from the post, which has helped the team’s perimeter players thrive. “I targeted Jess Shepard as someone that had a unique ability to help play modern basketball,” Miller said.
Shepard’s WNBA journey had been marked by challenges, including a torn ACL six games into her rookie season with the Minnesota Lynx in 2019, which sidelined her for much of her early career. She also missed significant time in 2023 due to illness and injury. At one point, Shepard contemplated leaving the sport but was encouraged by former Notre Dame coach Muffet McGraw and others to persevere. Shepard also sat out the entire 2024 WNBA season, choosing instead to continue playing overseas with Italy’s Reyer Venezia, a decision she later described as pivotal for her development and well-being.
Her gradual improvement in shooting and playmaking hinted at her potential, but it was in Dallas’s system under Fernandez that Shepard fully realized her capabilities. The coach’s vision aligned with her style of play, and their shared straightforward communication has been credited with fostering her confidence and success. Fernandez highlighted her basketball IQ and enjoyment of the game, emphasizing that she plays "free" and with aggression while maintaining efficiency.
Shepard has embraced Fernandez’s high standards and demanding coaching style, which reminded her of her collegiate experience under McGraw, ultimately driving both individual and team growth. The Wings are now focused on building on their progress, with Shepard serving as an essential component alongside the team’s young core and future investments, including a new practice facility and arena slated to open next year.
Despite her personal achievements, Shepard places the emphasis firmly on team goals. “What we’ve been able to do here in Dallas has been great, compared to the season they had last year. But we want to keep building on that,” she said, underscoring the Wings’ aspirations to compete for a championship.