From Four Teams to Finding Home: The Rise of Li Yueru

For years, Li Yueru has been searching for a stable home in the WNBA. It may not seem like a tall task for a 6’7” big with floor-stretching ability and crafty footwork, but Yueru has played for four different teams in just three seasons. This time, though, things feel different.

Photo of Li Yueru receiving player of the game honors in Dallas after the win over the Atlanta Dream Photo by @powerthephotographer

After stops with the Chicago Sky, Los Angeles Sparks, and most recently the Seattle Storm, her new opportunity with the Dallas Wings is beginning to reveal the kind of impact she’s capable of. In just four appearances, she’s averaging 7.3 points and 7.3 rebounds in 23.5 minutes, a rebounding rate that ranks among the most efficient in the league.

While her overall shooting numbers this season won’t turn heads, Li secured a 10 point, 15 rebound double-double on 44.4% shooting in a statement win over a 4th ranked Atlanta Dream, a team known for having one of the most dominant frontcourts in the WNBA.

Before landing in Dallas, her short stint in Seattle raised some eyebrows after she requested a trade just a few weeks in, citing limited playing time. The abrupt nature of the move sparked minor controversy, with questions about whether the decision stemmed from internal dynamics or coaching rotations. But in hindsight, the move proved to be a turning point. In Dallas, she’s seen a clear bump in both minutes and production. Despite the brief stay in Seattle, Yueru expressed gratitude for the chance to train alongside veteran posts like Nneka Ogwumike, calling it a valuable experience in her development.

Before arriving in the W, Li was a dominant force in the Chinese Basketball Association, a multi-time All-Star, and one of Asia’s most decorated young bigs. Her WNBA transition hasn’t been seamless, but each season she’s added something new to her game.

From a five-minute-a-night player in Chicago to an emerging rotation piece in Dallas, Li’s trajectory is steadily rising. With overseas standouts Luisa Geiselsoder and Teaira McCowan expected to return later in the season, it remains to be seen how the Wings will balance the frontcourt. But if Li keeps producing, don’t be surprised if she carves out a lasting role on a team still searching for the right mix.