League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Jessica Shepard reveals she considered quitting WNBA before breakout season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 26, 2026, 1:50 PM

Last updated Sep 26, 2026

Jessica Shepard reveals she considered quitting WNBA before breakout season

Summary

Jessica Shepard discussed her struggles in the WNBA during a recent interview. The Dallas Wings forward admitted she was close to leaving the league after a difficult 2024 season with Minnesota. She opted to play overseas in Italy, prioritizing her health and financial stability. This decision contributed to her successful 2026 season, where she averages 14.3 points, nearly 11 rebounds, and five assists, earning her a spot in the All-Star game. Shepard's improvement has drawn praise from peers, including Caitlin Clark, who expressed a desire to play alongside her.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Shepard averaged 14.3 points, nearly 11 rebounds this season.
•She was on the verge of quitting around 2024.
•Chose to play overseas for health and mental break.
•Earned her first All-Star selection in 2026.
•Caitlin Clark expressed interest in playing with her.

Latest Updates

1:50 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 WNBA All-Star admits she was ‘ready to quit’ the league

What they're saying

"
Jessica Shepard has revealed she was on the verge of walking away from the league. Jessica Shepard’s 2026 season with the Dallas Wings has been a total career turnaround, filling up the stat sheet, putting up 14.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Dallas Wings WNBA Basketball