What happened: Shepard set career highs in points, rebounds and assists per game. She earned her first All-Star appearance during the 2026 season.
Why it matters: The jump to 14.5 points, 11.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists marked a shift to primary playmaking responsibility. Her six triple-doubles, including a 20-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist outing, placed her among the league's most versatile forwards.
By the numbers: 14.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, 5.3 assists per game; sixth triple-double: 20 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists; earlier triple-double: 13 points, 11 rebounds, 12 assists.
What to watch: Watch for All-WNBA voting results to see if the breakout brings first-team honors.