Erica Wheeler Breaks Her Free Agency Decision to Sign With Storm After Fever
Erica Wheeler, a seasoned WNBA guard and 2019 All-Star MVP, has signed with the Seattle Storm for the 2025 season after her tenure with the Indiana Fever. This move marks a significant chapter in her career, highlighting her resilience and adaptability in the league.(SBNation.com)
Wheeler’s journey in the WNBA is a testament to her determination. Undrafted out of Rutgers University in 2013, she began her professional career overseas before securing a spot in the WNBA in 2015 with the Atlanta Dream and later the New York Liberty. Her most notable stint was with the Indiana Fever from 2016 to 2019, where she became the first undrafted player to earn All-Star MVP honors in 2019 .(Wikipedia, KIRO 7 News Seattle)
Over her career, Wheeler has played for multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Sparks and Atlanta Dream, showcasing her skills as a reliable point guard and leader on and off the court.(KIRO 7 News Seattle)
In her recent seasons with the Indiana Fever (2023–2024), Wheeler’s role evolved, especially with the emergence of young talents like Caitlin Clark. Despite a reduced role, she remained a vital veteran presence, mentoring younger players and contributing significantly to team dynamics .(SBNation.com)
The Fever’s offseason acquisitions, including guards Sydney Colson and the re-signing of Kelsey Mitchell, indicated a shift in team strategy, making Wheeler’s departure a strategic decision for both parties .(SI)
On February 12, 2025, the Seattle Storm announced the signing of Erica Wheeler. Head Coach Noelle Quinn praised Wheeler’s playmaking abilities and her dedication to the game, emphasizing the value she brings to the team’s dynamics .(storm.wnba.com, SBNation.com)
Wheeler expressed her enthusiasm about joining the Storm, highlighting the franchise’s prestige and her eagerness to play alongside talents like Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins-Smith, and Gabby Williams .(SI)
The addition of Wheeler bolsters the Storm’s backcourt depth, especially significant given the team’s recent challenges with injuries to key guards. Her experience and leadership are expected to play a crucial role in guiding the team through the season .(SBNation.com)
Wheeler’s current performance overseas with Nesibe Aydin GSK in Turkey, where she averages 14.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, indicates her readiness to contribute significantly upon her return to the WNBA .(SI)
As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, Erica Wheeler’s integration into the Seattle Storm presents an exciting development. Her journey from undrafted player to All-Star MVP and now a key addition to a championship-contending team underscores her resilience and the value she brings to any roster.
