The Minnesota Lynx reached the WNBA Finals before getting defeated by the New York Liberty in 2024. Napheesa Collier is hoping to lead the Lynx to another successful season -- and potentially a championship victory -- in 2025. Collier is set to have another big season, but maintaining a competitive roster around her is crucial to say the least. The Lynx recently announced that they re-signed forward Jessica Shepard, via the team's website.
"The Minnesota Lynx announced today that the team has re-signed veteran forward Jessica Shepard. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not released," the announcement reads.
Jessica Shepard returns to Lynx for 2025 season
Shepard, 28, made her WNBA debut in 2019 with Minnesota. She appeared in only six games, however. Shepard ended up missing the entire 2020 campaign due to an injury. The forward returned in 2021 and averaged 2.0 points per outing across 22 games played. In 2022 and 2023, she took a step forward.
Shepard averaged exactly 8.1 points per game each season. She played in a career-high 36 contests in 2022 while also making 22 starts. Shepard added a career-high 7.4 rebounds per game.
In 2023, Shepard made 17 starts and played in a total of 21 games, averaging 7.1 rebounds to go along with the aforementioned 8.1 points per contest.
After not playing in 2024, Shepard is set to return in 2025. She could play a significant role with a Minnesota team that is looking to make another competitive run.
Lynx's 2025 season outlook
The Lynx will be among the favorites to reach the WNBA Finals once again with Napheesa Collier leading the way. Minnesota's depth makes the team an especially intriguing contender.
The New York Liberty remain the team to beat. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Aces are always capable of making things interesting. In other words, the Lynx won't have a lack of competition in their journey to return to the championship.
There is certainly reason for confidence in Minnesota. It would not be surprising to see the Jessica Shepard signing positively impact the team in a significant manner. Every championship team features reliable role players who tend to step up in big moments alongside the star players.
The Lynx's first preseason game is scheduled for May 6 against the Chicago Sky. Following another preseason contest against the Sky on May 10, Minnesota will officially begin the regular season on May 16 in a matchup with the Dallas Wings.