Ex-Irish Star Jessica Shepard Dominates WNBA, Named MIP

Jessica Shepard, a former Notre Dame women's basketball star, has experienced a remarkable resurgence in her WNBA career. After limited playing time with the Minnesota Lynx from 2019 to 2025, Shepard was named a WNBA All-Star in her inaugural season with the Dallas Wings. She further elevated her achievements by being recognized as the league's Most Improved Player. During the regular season, Shepard consistently delivered double-double performances, averaging 14.5 points and 11.1 rebounds per game, complemented by 5.3 assists. Her prior best season was in 2022 with the Lynx, where she averaged 8.1 points and 7.4 rebounds. Shepard's collegiate career saw her play for Nebraska and Notre Dame from 2015 to 2019, where she averaged 17.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. Her standout season with Notre Dame in 2018-19 included averages of 16.7 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. She was a two-time All-ACC first-team selection and a third-team All-American, also contributing to Notre Dame's 2018 national championship team. Shepard has also played internationally in Italy and Greece during WNBA offseasons. The Dallas Wings are currently in a 1-1 series tie against the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA opening round.