Wheeler played college hockey at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he helped lead the Pointers in back-to-back National Championships in 1989 and 1990.
Wheeler was notable as the most prominent African-American player in the ECHL at the time; this, combined with his rough playing style, made him an occasional target of hostility from opposing fans.
Wheeler became the first African American head coach in league history, but his tenure lasted only a season and a half.
Wheeler guided the Checkers to a record of 43–48–14; midway through the 1999–2000 season, he was reassigned as Assistant General Manager and replaced as head coach by Don McAdam.
Wheeler then accepted a position with WFNZ radio in Charlotte, where he co-hosted and hosted mid-day and weekend shows.