The WNBA has seen its fair share of drama, but Erica Wheeler’s recent stance has set social media ablaze. The former Indiana Fever guard, who previously presented herself as a mentor to rookie Caitlin Clark, is now facing backlash after publicly siding with Angel Reese, Clark’s longtime college rival. Many fans feel blindsided by what they see as a betrayal, leaving the basketball community divided over Wheeler’s true intentions.
At the start of the 2024 season, Wheeler appeared to take Clark under her wing, offering guidance as the Fever’s top draft pick adjusted to life in the league. She spoke openly about the challenges of being a rookie and assured fans that she would support Clark through the transition. However, as the season progressed, observers noticed inconsistencies. Wheeler’s social media interactions hinted at a shift in allegiance—she engaged with posts criticizing Clark and seemed to align herself with those who were not in Clark’s corner. Fans who once admired Wheeler’s mentorship began questioning her sincerity.
The situation escalated further when Wheeler publicly defended WNBA MVP Asia Wilson amid resurfaced tweets that stirred controversy. Rather than remaining neutral, she firmly backed Wilson, which many interpreted as another indirect slight toward Clark. When confronted about her stance, Wheeler’s response was dismissive, hinting at frustration with fans who only seemed to support her when she spoke positively about Clark. This response fueled speculation that she harbored resentment toward the rising star, deepening the rift between her and Fever supporters.
The biggest shock came when Wheeler openly supported Angel Reese, reigniting the rivalry that began during Clark and Reese’s college days. By aligning herself with Clark’s fiercest competitor, Wheeler effectively positioned herself against the Fever’s fan-favorite rookie. The move left many questioning whether her initial mentorship was genuine or merely a public relations effort. Some supporters felt betrayed, with one fan even requesting a refund on a donation made to Wheeler’s personal cause, highlighting the depth of disappointment.
This situation reflects a broader shift in the WNBA. With fresh talent like Clark drawing immense attention, some veteran players may feel overshadowed in a rapidly evolving league. While some believe Wheeler’s actions stem from jealousy, others argue that these tensions are simply part of professional sports, where rivalries and shifting loyalties are inevitable. Regardless of the reasons behind Wheeler’s stance, one thing is clear—the league is changing, and the basketball world is watching closely to see how these dynamics unfold.
