New Sports Beat Writer for Memphis Commercial Appeal Dives into High School Sports Scene

As a new sports beat writer for the Memphis Commercial Appeal, Wendell Shepherd Jr. expresses his excitement to delve into the vibrant high school sports scene in Memphis. Coming from a background covering Mizzou football, Shepherd’s journey takes him from the sights of the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid to indulging in local eateries like Gus's and Central BBQ.

His passion for sports and storytelling, honed at the Missouri School of Journalism, fuels his curiosity to uncover the rich history, talent, and untold stories within Memphis’ high school sports community.

Former baseball player and seasoned sports reporter, Shepherd aims to highlight the holistic stories of up-and-coming athletes in Memphis, steering away from mere box scores to capture the essence of sports in the 901 area.

Shepherd’s extensive experience, from internships in Dallas-Fort Worth to radio hosting in Columbia, sets the stage for his new role at the Commercial Appeal, where he plans to connect with players, coaches, families, and the broader Memphis community.

Armed with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, Shepherd is poised to bring fresh perspectives to the Memphis high school sports arena and shine a light on the narratives that often go unnoticed.