Jessica Shepard is an American professional basketball player who plays forward for the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA. Recognized for her versatility, rebounding, and basketball IQ, Shepard is a key contributor with a championship pedigree from her college and international career.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Jessica Shepard
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Date of Birth: September 11, 1996
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Hometown: Fremont, Nebraska
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Height: 6’4″ (1.93 m)
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Weight: 186 lbs (84 kg)
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Position: Forward
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High School: Lincoln Southeast High School, then Fremont High School
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Won a Nebraska state basketball title (2013)
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Developed a reputation for leadership and versatility
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College Career
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Nebraska (2015–2017):
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Big Ten Freshman of the Year
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All-Big Ten honors
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Notre Dame (2017–2019):
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Transferred to Notre Dame
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Helped lead team to 2018 NCAA Championship
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All-ACC honors
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Known for scoring, rebounding, and playmaking
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Professional Career
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WNBA Draft: 2nd round, 16th overall, 2019 WNBA Draft by Minnesota Lynx
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Teams:
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Minnesota Lynx (2019–present, with international commitments in 2024)
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WNBA Stats (through 2023):
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85 games, 39 starts
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21.8 minutes, 6.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists per game
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48.2% field goal shooting
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2022: 8.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists per game
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2023: 8.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.1 assists per game
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Missed 2019 and 2020 seasons due to ACL injury and recovery
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Missed 2024 WNBA season due to overseas contract obligations
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International:
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Played for Dinamo Sassari (Italy, 2021–2022)
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Played for Reyer Venezia (Italy, 2022–2024)
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Played for Athinaikos (Greece, 2024–2025)
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2025:
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Re-signed with Minnesota Lynx
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Missed early 2025 games due to contract and injury-related issues
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International and National Team
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Slovenian National Team:
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Received Slovenian citizenship in 2024
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Eligible to play for Slovenia women’s national basketball team
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Achievements & Honors
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NCAA Champion (Notre Dame, 2018)
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All-ACC honors
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Big Ten Freshman of the Year
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All-Big Ten honors
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Nebraska state basketball champion (2013)
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Key contributor for Minnesota Lynx, averaging 8+ points and 7+ rebounds in recent seasons
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Played professionally in Italy and Greece
Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Versatile forward with strong rebounding and passing
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High basketball IQ and leadership
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Reliable scorer and defender
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Clutch performer in big games
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Style:
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Physical, skilled forward who excels in transition and half-court offense
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Brings toughness, championship experience, and a team-first mentality
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FAQs About Jessica Shepard
What position does Jessica Shepard play?
Forward
Which team does she play for?
Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
How old is Jessica Shepard?
28 (born September 11, 1996)
What are her main achievements?
NCAA champion, All-ACC honors, Big Ten Freshman of the Year, Nebraska state champion, key WNBA contributor, Slovenian national team eligibility
What is her playing style?
Versatile, high-IQ forward with strong rebounding and playmaking
Conclusion
Jessica Shepard is a versatile and accomplished forward whose rebounding, playmaking, and championship experience make her a valuable asset for the Minnesota Lynx and a respected figure in women’s basketball.
(Age, statistics, and honors are as of June 2025.)
