Jessica Shepard Joins Unrivaled in Multi-Year Deal

Breakout Season Highlights

Jessica Shepard, a 29‑year‑old 6‑foot‑4 forward, is enjoying her best WNBA campaign with the Dallas Wings after a five‑season stint with the Minnesota Lynx. She signed a two‑year contract worth just over $2 million during the offseason and is averaging career highs of 14.6 points, 11.5 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. Her shooting efficiency sits at 58.9% from the floor and 72.2% from the free‑throw line.

Shepard ranks second in rebounding, tenth in assists, and eighth in assist‑to‑turnover ratio (2.85), while leading the league in win shares (3.9) and finishing fifth in offensive rating. In an 88‑77 victory over the New York Liberty she posted her third triple‑double of the season with 22 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists, marking three of her four career triple‑doubles this year. Her versatility on both ends of the floor has made her a cornerstone for the Wings’ playoff hopes.

All‑Star Recognition and Off‑Season Move

June 8 brought a milestone for Shepard when she was named a starter for the WNBA All‑Star game for the first time, capping a breakout season. Just a week after that honor, the 3‑on‑3 women’s league Unrivaled announced it had signed her to a multi‑year deal for the 2027 season. Shepard, who previously spent her offseasons playing in Greece and Italy, praised the opportunity to compete with the world’s best talent. She captured All‑EuroLeague Second Team honors last spring and earned 2025 All‑Greek A1 Player of the Year honors, adding international experience to her résumé.

“I am really excited to be joining Unrivaled for the coming seasons,” she said in a statement, emphasizing her desire to develop her game in a new format. These international accolades highlight her consistent impact beyond the WNBA. The move signals a fresh chapter as she prepares for the 2027 Unrivaled season.

Unrivaled’s Growing Roster

Shepard joins a burgeoning group of WNBA stars already signed by Unrivaled, including Olivia Miles, Gabby Williams, Flau’Jae Johnson, Bridget Carleton, Marine Johannés, Kayla Thornton and Kayla McBride. The league has not yet disclosed which team she will represent, but the mystery adds to the excitement surrounding the 2027 season. Her addition signals Unrivaled’s intent to fill its roster with elite talent transitioning from the traditional 5‑on‑5 game.

The recent influx of high‑profile players underscores a strategic shift as the league looks to compete at the highest level. Having a forward of Shepard’s caliber—known for her rebounding and playmaking—strengthens the competition and could redefine the 3‑on‑3 format. Fans can expect to see fast‑paced action and new tactical approaches as the new signings integrate.

College Roots and Draft History

Originally from Notre Dame, Shepard helped the Fighting Irish capture the 2018 national championship alongside current Wings teammate Arike Ogunbowale. She entered the WNBA in 2019 as the 16th overall pick by the Minnesota Lynx. Her college experience set the foundation for the professional accolades that followed.