Overview
- The WNBA announced Jessica Shepard as the 2026 Kia Most Improved Player after a season of major statistical gains with the Dallas Wings.
- Shepard averaged career highs of 14.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 31.7 minutes per game, representing large year-over-year percentage increases in scoring, rebounding and assists.
- Her breakout followed a free-agent signing with Dallas that gave her expanded minutes and a featured role after seven seasons with the Minnesota Lynx.
- The award was decided by media voting, with Shepard receiving 29 votes ahead of Shakira Austin (25) and Carla Leite (11) among other finalists.
- Shepard played in 42 games this season and earned her first All-Star nod, and the award arrives while the Wings face a must-win second game after a shaky Game 1 performance in the first-round playoffs.