Jacy Sheldon has had quite a year. A remarkable year, actually.
She played a pivotal role for THE Ohio State women’s basketball team, securing a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament before losing to No. 7 Duke. She then capped off her college career by being drafted as the No. 5 pick for the Dallas Wings in the WNBA Draft.
Within a short two-week span, she transitioned to playing against players she idolized and watched while growing up and in college.
Yes, it has truly been a memorable year for Jacy Sheldon.
“I was nervous and unsure of what to expect at first. It felt like being a freshman in college again, but as a rookie in the league. That feeling definitely comes with the territory,” Sheldon expressed. “But now, I feel settled. I’ve found my comfort zone and I’m enjoying playing in this league.”
And it’s no wonder why. Sheldon is part of an exceptional draft class, rivalling some of the best in WNBA history.
Caitlin Clark. Angel Reese. Cameron Brink. Rickea Jackson. Aaliyah Edwards. Kamilla Cardoso. Kate Martin. Every night, a rookie is making headlines, breaking records, or leaving viewers in awe.
With more eyes on the WNBA product, Sheldon is proud to be a part of this remarkable group.
“It’s an incredible draft class. As a competitor, you want to challenge yourself against the best. If someone has a great game, I want to face them,” Sheldon shared. “I’ve built relationships with my fellow draftees. We root for each other’s success, but we’re also fierce competitors looking to win.”
Sheldon found herself in an ideal situation on paper. Dallas boasted a tough, defense-oriented team with a Big 3 in Satou Sabally, Natasha Howard, and Arike Ogunbowale. Alongside promising second-year Maddy Siegrist and an impressive center duo in Kalani Brown and Teaira McCowan.
Given the team’s veteran makeup, Sheldon initially eased into her role as a facilitator off the bench, without the pressure of being the primary go-to player that other rookies often face.
“Getting comfortable with Dallas’ offensive system was key for me. It wasn’t about the pace of the game but about adapting to how we play here,” Sheldon explained. “But now, I definitely feel more settled.”
That’s the second time Sheldon has mentioned feeling at ease, and it’s for good reason. Despite the promising setup, Dallas was hit hard by injuries at the start of the season. Sabally, Siegrist, and Howard all faced significant time on the sidelines.
Suddenly, Sheldon, who was averaging around 13.5 minutes per game off the bench, was thrust into a larger role with the starting lineup.
But was this always the plan, or was it expedited due to the team’s injuries?
“Honestly, I don’t have an answer to that,” Sheldon chuckled. “We’ve had key players sidelined, so as a player, you have to stay prepared and step up when needed. It’s a ‘next woman up’ mentality here. Even as a rookie, maintaining that mindset is crucial at this level.”
The shift from the bench to the starting lineup has paid off for Sheldon. Her minutes have more than doubled since joining the starting five, and her performance has improved across the board.
“I believe in having the same mentality regardless of the role. Whether coming off the bench or starting, I aim to bring energy on both ends of the court,” she stated. “I’ve tried to maintain an aggressive approach no matter the role, and it’s been a rewarding experience.”
Since becoming a starter, Sheldon’s game has flourished, and she has become more comfortable on the court.
One notable improvement is her increased three-point attempts, maintaining her efficiency from her time at Ohio State.
Sheldon, who shot 37.5% from behind the arc in her senior year at Ohio State, is now shooting 36.6% as a starter in the WNBA – ranking 23rd in the league in three-point shooting.
Her standout performance, sinking 5-of-8 from deep in the Wings’ victory over the Dream on July 5, turned heads.
GO OFF ROOK https://t.co/NEQkbGh8uA pic.twitter.com/lGryzWvJes
— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) July 6, 2024
“Shooters gotta shoot,” Sheldon quipped. “It’s all about confidence. I believe in the law of averages. If I miss a shot, I’ll keep shooting. My teammates trust me, and I trust myself.”
The five three-pointers against the Dream, where Sheldon finished with a career-high 17 points, impressed many. However, it was her two steals that sealed the Wings’ narrow win.
“I’ve been watching a lot of footage with [Jacy Sheldon], helping her adjust to the physicality and pace of the game,” Head Coach Latricia Trammell told reporters post-game. “She’s a fierce competitor who values the game and embraces the pressure.”
Rook takes the chain 👏 https://t.co/VZa98L3XoX pic.twitter.com/fKxbChOmtw
— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) July 6, 2024
Embracing defensive responsibilities is essential in Dallas and under Coach Trammell’s guidance.
“Dallas and LT prioritize defense. It’s our culture here – a culture I aim to embody. I love playing defense, disrupting plays, and creating chaos,” Sheldon affirmed. “I enjoy being aggressive and physical on the court.”
In a physical league, Sheldon acknowledges the challenge defensively, often taking on tough assignments.
But who has been her toughest matchup so far?
“Oh, there are so many phenomenal players in this league,” Sheldon replied. “Every game, I face off against great competition.”
“Jewell Loyd has probably been the toughest,” Sheldon added.
With the Olympic break approaching, Sheldon looks forward to her first rest since the start of the college season.
So, what’s on the agenda during the break before gearing up for the second half of the season?
“I’ll have some downtime. I can go home and visit my family. Surprisingly, I’m excited to head back to Ohio,” Sheldon joked. “I won’t take too much time off. I’ll probably take a day to rest and then hit the gym again.”
After all, shooters gotta shoot.
All statistics are accurate as of Tuesday, July 16 at 4 p.m. ET
