Erica Wheeler

Image of Erica Wheeler
Image of Player Erica Wheeler

Player Information

Erica Wheeler (born May 2, 1991) is an American professional basketball player for the Seattle Storm of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and for the Vinyl of Unrivaled. Wheeler was undrafted out of Rutgers, but eventually made her way into the WNBA in 2015.
Birthdate:
2 May 1991
Full Name:
Erica Wheeler
Birthplace:
Miami, Florida, USA
Nationality:
United States
Gender:
Female
Height (cm):
170
Weight (kg):
65
Education:
Parkway Academy (High School), Rutgers (College)
Career Started:
2013
Notable Achievements:
WNBA All-Star (2019), WNBA All-Star Game MVP (2019), McDonald's All-American (2009)
Current Team:
Seattle Storm
Draft Year:
2013
Previous Teams:
Leonas de Ponce (From 2013, To 2013), Mersin Kurtulus (From 2013, To 2014), Sport Club do Recife (From 2014, To 2015), Atenienses de Manati (From 2015, To 2015), Sampaio Basquete (From 2015, To 2016), Indiana Fever (From 2016, To 2019), Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca (From 2016, To 2017), Beşiktaş (From 2017, To 2018), Nadezhda Orenburg (From 2018, To 2020), İzmit Belediyespor (From 2020, To 2021), Los Angeles Sparks (From 2021, To 2021), BC Polkowice (From 2021, To 2024), Atlanta Dream (From 2022, To 2022), Indiana Fever (From 2023, To 2024), Nesibe Aydın GSK (From 2024, To 2025), Seattle Storm (From 2025, To present)
Player Active:
From - 2013, To - Present

Erica Wheeler Bio

Erica Wheeler (born May 2, 1991) is an American professional basketball player for the Seattle Storm of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and for Vinyl BC. Wheeler was undrafted out of Rutgers University but eventually made her way into the WNBA in 2015. Known for her resilience and skill on the court, she has made significant contributions to her teams and has received numerous accolades throughout her career.

Early Life and Background

Erica Wheeler grew up in the Miami neighborhood of Liberty City, which is known for its challenging environment. Despite the difficulties she faced, including the tragic loss of two close friends during her youth, Wheeler found solace and purpose in basketball. She attended Parkway Academy, where she was a member of the basketball team, showcasing her talent from an early age.

Path to Basketball

In 2009, Wheeler committed to play college basketball at Rutgers University. During her time there, she helped the team reach the NCAA Tournament in each of her first three seasons. As a junior, she led the team in steals and averaged just under ten points per game. Tragically, prior to her senior year, Wheeler’s mother passed away from cancer. Nevertheless, she persevered, completing her senior season and graduating from Rutgers in 2013.

Erica Wheeler Career

Early Career (2013–2015)

Wheeler began her professional career in 2013, playing for various teams overseas, including Leonas de Ponce and Mersin Kurtulus. Her international experience helped her develop her skills and gain exposure in the sport. In 2015, Wheeler earned a tryout with the Atlanta Dream after going undrafted in the WNBA Draft. She appeared in 17 games for the Dream that season, marking her entry into the WNBA.

Breakthrough (2016–2019)

In 2016, Wheeler signed with the Indiana Fever, where she made a significant impact. She started in 25 games and played alongside WNBA legend Tamika Catchings. By 2019, Wheeler achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first undrafted player in WNBA history to be named All-Star Game MVP. This recognition solidified her status as a key player in the league.

Notable Works and Milestones

Erica Wheeler’s signature achievements include being named a WNBA All-Star in 2019 and winning the WNBA All-Star Game MVP in the same year. Additionally, she was recognized as a McDonald’s All-American in 2009, highlighting her talent from a young age.

Erica Wheeler Award Nominations

Throughout her career, Erica Wheeler has received several nominations and accolades, most notably her selection as a WNBA All-Star in 2019 and her recognition as the All-Star Game MVP.

Erica Wheeler Awards Won

Erica Wheeler has won multiple awards during her career, including the WNBA All-Star Game MVP in 2019 and being named a WNBA All-Star in the same year.

Erica Wheeler Family

Information regarding Erica Wheeler’s family is limited and not publicly disclosed.

Personal Life

Details about Erica Wheeler’s personal life, including her marital status and children, are not publicly available. However, she is known for her commitment to philanthropy and mentoring young athletes. In February 2024, she joined the WNBA Changemakers Collective, collaborating with VOICEINSPORT to support girls in sports and develop diverse leaders on and off the court.