Source-checked report · National
Jessica Shepard wins the WNBA Most Improved Player award
The Dallas forward received 29 of 74 votes after a season of career-high production.
Jessica Shepard has been named the 2026 Kia WNBA Most Improved Player, the league announced on 30 September. The Dallas Wings forward received 29 of 74 votes from sportswriters and broadcasters, ahead of Shakira Austin with 25 and Carla Leite with 11.
In her first season with Dallas and sixth in the WNBA, Shepard averaged 14.5 points, 11.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists. The league’s official comparison lists her 2025 Minnesota averages as 8.0 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.6 assists.
Shepard recorded a league-leading six triple-doubles and 25 double-doubles. Her 467 rebounds were the second-highest single-season total in WNBA history, behind Angel Reese’s 521 in 2026. She also earned her first All-Star selection and was voted a starter.
The award recognises a completed regular season. Shepard started all 42 of her appearances and helped Dallas earn the seventh playoff seed; the announcement does not establish the Wings’ eventual postseason finish.
Sources
Check the original record.
Open the governing body or organiser’s publication for the underlying result, decision or tournament update.