ARLINGTON, Texas (April 11, 2026) — The Dallas Wings continue to reshape their roster ahead of the 2026 season, announcing Saturday the signing of veteran forward Jessica Shepard to a multi-year contract. The move adds size, efficiency, and playmaking to a rising Wings squad looking to build on its young core.
Shepard arrives in Arlington after five seasons with the Minnesota Lynx, where she developed into one of the league’s most efficient interior scorers and a reliable presence on the glass. In 2025, the 6-foot-4 forward appeared in 40 games, averaging 8.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per contest while leading the WNBA in field goal percentage at an impressive 63.8 percent. Her ability to convert high-percentage looks around the rim and extend possessions made her a key contributor in Minnesota’s rotation.
Dallas leadership made it clear that Shepard was a priority target in free agency, citing her versatility and basketball IQ as ideal complements to the team’s evolving identity.
The Dallas Wings: A Team on the Rise
“The Wings are ecstatic about the signing of Jessica Shepard to a multi-year deal,” said Executive Vice President and General Manager Curt Miller. “She was a priority for us in free agency because of her versatility offensively. She is a fantastic passer and facilitator, along with being an incredible scorer around the rim. We were also drawn to her because of her high basketball IQ, which we can’t wait to pair with our exciting young core of players.”
Shepard’s rebounding presence stands out as one of her most valuable traits. Her 2.3 offensive rebounds per game last season ranked seventh in the league, while her overall rebounding average placed her among the WNBA’s top 10. That production is expected to address a key area of emphasis for Dallas, as the team continues to prioritize second-chance opportunities and interior toughness.
Over the course of her WNBA career, Shepard has appeared in 125 games, posting averages of 6.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists while shooting 53.5 percent from the field. Since entering the league in 2019, her efficiency ranks among the best, placing her ninth overall in field goal percentage among players with at least 300 made field goals.
Beyond her WNBA success, Shepard elevated her profile during the offseason with standout performances overseas. Playing for Famila Schio in Italy’s Serie A1, she averaged 16.8 points and 9.0 rebounds across 20 games while showcasing improved perimeter shooting. In EuroLeague competition, Shepard emerged as one of the tournament’s most dominant players, finishing second in scoring at 17.0 points per game while leading all players in rebounding (9.5), double-doubles (six), and overall efficiency.
Her international résumé also includes a decorated stint in Greece, where she earned a clean sweep of honors in 2025, including Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, First Team, and All-Defensive Team recognition. Those accolades further underline her all-around impact and ability to control games on both ends of the floor.
In Dallas, Shepard reunites with former Notre Dame Fighting Irish teammate Arike Ogunbowale, rekindling a connection that dates back to one of the most successful eras in program history. The duo played together from 2017 to 2019, leading Notre Dame to consecutive national championship game appearances and capturing the 2018 NCAA title.
That chemistry could prove pivotal as the Wings integrate Shepard into a roster that blends established talent with emerging stars. Her ability to facilitate offense from the frontcourt, combined with her rebounding and interior scoring, gives Dallas another dimension as it prepares for a competitive Western Conference.
With training camp approaching, the addition of Shepard signals a clear intent from the Wings’ front office: build a balanced, physical roster capable of competing at a high level. If her recent production is any indication, Shepard’s arrival could play a significant role in elevating Dallas’ ceiling in 2026.
