The Indiana Fever are clearly focused on securing two-time All-Star Kelsey Mitchell during the free agency period. The 29-year-old guard, who has spent her entire career with the team, is now set to become an unrestricted free agent. Despite Mitchell expressing her desire to remain in Indiana, she hasn’t ruled out the possibility of exploring other options.
Another potential free agency departure for the Fever is veteran guard Erika Wheeler. The 33-year-old, a former All-Star, is also heading into free agency when the window opens in January. Fans have been eagerly speculating whether Wheeler will stay with the Fever or leave, leading to mounting questions about her future with the team.
In response to the persistent inquiries from fans about her plans, Wheeler made her feelings clear with a candid post on social media. “Hahah I love how I post a tweet and then y’all speak on free agency in my DMs hahaha,” she wrote. “Like y’all, January and February are right there. You’ll know soon enough! Let me beeee, can I just focus on hooping in Turkey right now? No WNBA conversations going on right now. Just know I’ll be on a roster.”
Currently playing in Turkey during the WNBA offseason, Wheeler’s message signals that she is not yet ready to make any commitments regarding her future with the Fever. As a free agent, she will likely have to negotiate an extension with Indiana, assuming the team wants her back.
Wheeler is coming off her second season of a return stint with the Fever. Having previously played for the team from 2016 to 2019, she rejoined for the 2024 season. In 39 games last year, she averaged 3.6 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in around 14 minutes per game. Given her current focus on international play, Wheeler has made it clear she is not rushing to make any decisions regarding her WNBA future. Fans will just have to wait until the offseason unfolds.
