The WNBA has had its fair share of drama in recent years, but the latest controversy involving Erica Wheeler has truly set the basketball world on fire. As the 2024 season heats up, Wheeler, a former Indiana Fever guard, has sparked outrage among fans by publicly supporting Angel Reese—Caitlin Clark’s biggest college rival—despite previously presenting herself as a mentor to Clark. This unexpected betrayal has left fans stunned and questioning Wheeler’s true motives.

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The Rise of Erica Wheeler and Her Relationship With Caitlin Clark

It all started with Wheeler’s relationship with Caitlin Clark, who was the Fever’s highly anticipated number one overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. In early 2024, Wheeler appeared to take Clark under her wing, offering guidance and support to the rookie as she transitioned to the WNBA. In a viral TikTok video, Wheeler spoke about the challenges of being a rookie and emphasized how she would always have Clark’s back, despite being in the same position as a fellow player. To most fans, this seemed like a genuine act of mentorship.

However, as the season progressed, things began to change. Despite her seemingly supportive public persona, Wheeler’s actions behind the scenes suggested otherwise. Her social media activity became a point of scrutiny when she was seen engaging with posts that criticized Clark, aligning herself with those in the anti-Clark camp. This subtle shift raised eyebrows, and many fans began to question Wheeler’s true feelings toward the Fever’s star player.

The Fallout: Wheeler’s Support of Angel Reese

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The drama took a dramatic turn when Wheeler began to publicly defend WNBA MVP Asia Wilson after controversial old tweets resurfaced. Instead of remaining neutral, Wheeler staunchly supported Wilson, despite the backlash surrounding her past remarks. Fans quickly interpreted this as a blow to Clark, and when they voiced their frustrations, Wheeler responded with a dismissive tweet: “Y’all fans are something else. I can never win with y’all unless it’s about Caitlin.” This cryptic message only fueled the flames, confirming what many had suspected—Wheeler was harboring resentment toward Clark.

The situation then escalated when Wheeler explicitly sided with Angel Reese, Clark’s biggest rival. The rivalry between Clark and Reese, which started in college, continued into their professional careers, and by supporting Reese, Wheeler directly opposed Clark—a move that shocked many Fever fans who had admired her.

Wheeler’s Response and Fan Backlash

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Wheeler’s reaction to the growing backlash? A tone-deaf post celebrating her personal achievements, including the sale of one of her houses and how “blessings have been pouring in.” This indifferent response further alienated her fans, many of whom felt betrayed. One fan even requested a refund on a donation they had made to Wheeler’s cause, illustrating the deep disappointment felt by many.

As the drama unfolded, questions arose about the shifting dynamics in the WNBA. With stars like Caitlin Clark gaining massive media attention and sponsorships, some veteran players like Wheeler may feel overshadowed by the new generation of players. Some fans speculated that Wheeler’s animosity toward Clark stemmed from jealousy, while others argued that this was simply the reality of a rapidly growing league.

The Future of the WNBA: A Crossroads of Tension

What’s clear is that the WNBA is at a crossroads. As the league evolves and garners more attention, tensions between the old guard and rising stars will likely continue to simmer. The rivalry between Clark and Reese is part of a larger shift, with veteran players like Wheeler navigating the complexities of a league that’s now attracting new fans and new faces. In the era of social media, every action and statement is scrutinized, and Wheeler’s decisions have certainly placed her in the hot seat.

Whether this drama ultimately helps or hurts the WNBA in the long run remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the basketball world is watching closely. Fans are divided, and the growing tension surrounding Wheeler’s controversial stance only highlights the high stakes involved in today’s sports rivalries.

Where Do You Stand on the Controversy?

What do you think? Was Wheeler wrong to support Angel Reese at the expense of Caitlin Clark? Or is this simply the natural progression of sports rivalries? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!