"I knew that at some point I wanted to play in the EuroLeague, and I felt that the time had come. When they contacted me, I did not hesitate for a second. I knew it was where I wanted to be," explained the new red-and-black '2', who also recalled her first spell in Spain with Clarinos Tenerife during the 2022/2023 season, her first as a professional, when she loved "the crowd."
Sheppard, who has been with Casademont since the first day of preseason, joins a roster on which Carlos Cantero is working to blend the returning players with the new arrivals. "We have not had a one-on-one conversation, but he did tell me that he wants me to be aggressive and score points. I think that is the role he would like me to play and the reason I am here," the guard said of the Madrid-born coach, who has returned to lead the red-and-black team this season after his paternity leave.
The guard will wear No. '2' on her red-and-black jersey. Photo: Pilar Álvarez
The Jordanian guard has a clear objective for the new season: "Win. I know the fans expect us to return to the EuroLeague Final Six and win the league, and that the team has a highly successful history. That is the main objective: to win as many games as possible and try to improve in every game." She added of the Aragonese roster: "There are many new faces, but there are also many veteran players returning, so I think the most important thing will be to develop an understanding and build chemistry."
HER CONNECTION WITH YARDEN GARZON
Sheppard shares a curious coincidence with another of Casademont's summer signings: Yarden Garzon. The two players were together at the Phoenix Mercury's 'training camp' in the WNBA, and neither made the cut for the roster that is ultimately competing in the regular season of the American league.
"I have spoken with her a lot. In fact, she is my shooting partner. She is a young player, but she is very excited. She is very tall and has great reach. I think she will give us a strong presence on both offense and defense, and that she is ready for this role," Sheppard said of Garzon, who has not yet been presented by Casademont.
