Every Batman needs an Alfred, and for Caitlin Clark, that guiding presence has always been Erica Wheeler. From the moment Clark stepped into the W, Wheeler has been the steady hand helping her adjust to the league. Now, Clark’s fiery competitiveness is no secret. We have seen how she reacts every time calls don’t go her way. But during her rookie season, Wheeler was always there to step in and calm things down. And tonight was just another reminder of how rock-solid their bond truly is.
In 2023, Wheeler started all 40 games for the Fever. She was one of the most important players for the Indiana-based franchise. But everything changed in 2024 when Fever picked up Caitlin Clark as the No.1 draft pick. Suddenly, Wheeler found herself on the bench. She managed to start just 2 games all season. But that didn’t stop her from contributing. Instead of letting her ego get in the way, she took up the role of a mentor for CC. She also assumed the role of her protector, kinda like Bane for CC’s Talia al-Ghul.
Perhaps the best example of that came in the Fever’s second-to-last game of the 2024 season against the Dallas Wings. Caitlin Clark was sitting with 6 technicals heading into the game. Everyone knew that 1 more technical would result in a one-game suspension. Indiana couldn’t afford to lose her for the final game, especially with a playoff spot on the line. That night, Wheeler and Boston were constantly on alert, doing everything they could to keep Clark out of trouble, making sure she kept her cool and didn’t risk a seventh tech. Now, that’s a true teammate!
But their association only lasted for one season as the Fever chose not to renew Erica Wheeler’s contract, and she went on to sign for the Seattle Storm. So instead of sharing the court as teammates, Clark and Wheeler found themselves on opposite sides tonight. But despite the jersey change, one moment proved their bond hasn’t faded. With just 12 seconds left and the game already in the Fever’s bag, Clark appeared to roll her ankle while trying to control the ball. Any guesses on who was the first to rush over and check on her? Not her current teammates, but Wheeler! Although many fans were surprised by this, those who followed the pair last season were anything but.
I was traveling tonight and missed the game but these photos capture one of my favorite stories in my upcoming book: How Erica Wheeler looked out for Caitlin Clark last season even though she lost her starting job when Clark arrived. When sports are good, they’re great. pic.twitter.com/0JCj0TuZ3x
— Christine Brennan (@cbrennansports) June 25, 2025
Later, renowned sports columnist Christine Brennan had something interesting to share! Brennan, who’s gearing up for the release of her new book On Her Game: Caitlin Clark and the Revolution in Women’s Sports, revealed that there’s an entire chapter dedicated to Erica Wheeler and how she looked out for Caitlin Clark during her rookie season. That will definitely be something to watch out for!
So, how did these two match up when they faced off for the first time as opponents? Let’s take a look!
Caitlin Clark wins against Erica Wheeler despite a poor outing
The Indiana Fever managed to beat the Seattle Storm 94-86 and managed to break their recent negative run of results. What made the victory even sweeter? They did it despite Caitlin Clark’s continued shooting struggles. To win without Clark playing well is something that will definitely please coach Stephanie White.
Erica Wheeler had a great match finishing with 20 points on 6-13 shooting. The same obviously can’t be said about Caitlin as she finished the game with a season low of 6 points from 3-13 shooting from the field. Wheeler may have delivered a standout performance, but knowing the competitor she is, the win would’ve meant far more than any personal stat line.
It was nice to see Erica Wheeler still share a deep bond with Caitlin Clark. Although Sophie Cunningham seems to have taken up the Wheeler role as the protector of Caitlin Clark with her antics against the Connecticut Sun, the void left by Erica still shows at times. Do you think the Fever miss Wheeler? Let us know in the comments down below!
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