Erica Wheeler played a notable role for the Seattle Storm in their narrow 80-78 win over the Atlanta Dream on Friday, sporting the Anthony Edwards signature AE sneakers in the striking purple AE 1 colorway. The guard shared her excitement on social media, expressing enthusiasm for the current sneaker and anticipation for the upcoming AE 2 release.
Wheeler commented on the new shoe, stating,
“100000% agree, but the AE 2 are insaneeeee!,”
reflecting her eagerness to try the successor to Edwards’ debut sneaker. In her 18 minutes against the Dream, Wheeler contributed one rebound, one assist, and one steal, enhancing her season averages to 10.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.
Seattle Storm’s Playoff Hopes Ride on Contributions from Erica Wheeler
The Storm currently sit in eighth place with a 17-18 record, fighting to secure a playoff spot as the season approaches its final stages. Wheeler’s consistent performance and energy have been vital to the team’s efforts in this competitive stretch.
The AE 1 sneaker, developed by Adidas in partnership with Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, has gained significant traction within the basketball world over the past year for its design and comfort. Its successor, the AE 2, has already stirred excitement among sneaker fans and is anticipated to launch between late 2025 and early 2026.
This sneaker line marks Edwards’ first signature footwear collection, symbolizing his rapid rise to prominence in the NBA after leading the Timberwolves through consecutive deep playoff runs. The AE sneakers have become a notable accessory both on and off the court, with players like Wheeler embracing the style and performance they provide.
Erica Wheeler Attributes Rising Confidence to Seattle Storm Coaching Staff
Wheeler has become a pivotal player for Seattle this season, crediting the coaching team for helping her rediscover confidence and freedom on the court. In a recent interview with the Seattle Times, she described how the coaches encouraged her authentic style of play and energy, which have become hallmarks of her game.
“If you see me as a person, I’m a free person. I do let loose a lot,” Wheeler said. “I’m the one that gets everybody going when it comes to fun. You know, I’m the one that brings the energy, and then, you know, and the coaching staff just instilled that confidence in me to just be who I am.” —Erica Wheeler, Seattle Storm Guard
Previously with the Indiana Fever, Wheeler served mostly as a backup point guard behind star Caitlin Clark, with limited playing time. Making the move to Seattle has allowed her to revive her career and showcase her skills more fully on the court.
“A lot of people thought maybe I was washed up because I didn’t play last year, so just being able to have that opportunity to do what I love, and do it with people who want me to do what I do, makes it even better,” Wheeler said.
Currently averaging 26.8 minutes per game, Wheeler is expected to play an essential role in Seattle‘s push for the playoffs as the season intensifies.
The Growing Buzz Surrounding Anthony Edwards’ AE Sneaker Line
The popularity of Anthony Edwards’ signature AE sneakers continues to build, with the first model becoming a favorite in basketball circles. The AE 2’s upcoming release has attracted early attention from sneaker enthusiasts, eager to see how the new design builds on the original.
Wheeler’s visible support of the AE sneakers highlights their appeal among professional athletes, linking Edwards’ rising NBA star power with influential voices in the WNBA and basketball community at large. As these shoes gain momentum, they are expected to influence both sneaker culture and player preferences throughout the basketball world.