Blockbuster Trade Shakes the WNBA: Li Yueru Bids Farewell and Embarks on Her Next Journey

In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the WNBA, a blockbuster three-team trade has reshaped the landscape of the league. Chinese basketball star Li Yueru has officially been traded to the Seattle Storm, marking the third stop in her WNBA career after previous stints with the Chicago Sky and Los Angeles Sparks.

The details of the trade are as follows:

• Seattle Storm receive: Li Yueru and the 2025 No. 2 overall pick (from the Sparks).
• Las Vegas Aces receive: Jewell Loyd and the No. 13 pick (from the Sparks).
• Los Angeles Sparks receive: Kelsey Plum and the No. 9 pick (from the Storm).

For Li Yueru, this trade represents not only a new team but a new chapter in her professional journey—one that continues her relentless pursuit of growth and excellence in the world’s most competitive women’s basketball league.

From Sparks to Storm: Li Yueru’s WNBA Journey

Li Yueru’s arrival in Seattle comes after a season with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she played 38 games, starting in just two of them. Averaging 14.4 minutes per game, she contributed 5.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 0.6 assists while shooting 46.1% from the field. Although her playing time was limited, she showcased flashes of brilliance, including a career-high 18-point, 7-rebound performance on June 12, 2023—ironically, against her new team, the Seattle Storm.

Prior to her stint in Los Angeles, Li Yueru made her WNBA debut with the Chicago Sky, where she played a supporting role. However, her development has been steady, and she remains one of the most promising international bigs in the league.

The Storm’s Gain: A Towering Presence in the Paint

The Storm’s acquisition of Li Yueru signals a clear intent to reinforce their frontcourt. At 6’7” (2.01m), she brings size, strength, and interior scoring, attributes that the Storm have been looking to bolster. Her rebounding ability, particularly on the offensive glass, will add a new dimension to Seattle’s inside game.

More importantly, Li Yueru has already demonstrated her ability to dominate on the international stage. During the 2023 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, she was an absolute force, averaging 17.7 points and 11 rebounds per game while shooting an astonishing 63% from the field. She led all players in rebounding and ranked sixth in scoring, proving that she belongs among the best in the world.

While her WNBA numbers haven’t yet mirrored her international dominance, Seattle provides a fresh start and a chance for her to carve out a bigger role. If given the right system and playing time, there’s no doubt she can elevate her game to new heights.

A Different Path: Li Yueru’s Relentless Pursuit of Excellence

What sets Li Yueru apart from many of her peers in Chinese basketball is her unwavering commitment to growth and competition. While other Chinese stars like Li Meng and Han Xu have opted to stay in the WCBA—where salaries are high, travel is minimal, and the level of pressure is different—Li Yueru has taken a different route.

Instead of choosing comfort, she has embraced the challenge of playing in the WNBA and the Turkish league, constantly testing herself against the world’s best. When asked why she doesn’t return to China for a lucrative contract, her response was simple yet powerful:

"Shouldn’t I aim higher? I can go back when it’s time to retire."

Her decision isn’t financially driven. To put things in perspective:

• WCBA salary: ¥4 million RMB (~$560,000 USD)
• Turkish league salary: ¥1 million RMB (~$140,000 USD)
• WNBA salary: ¥470,000 RMB (~$65,000 USD)

Despite making significantly less money overseas, Li Yueru continues to challenge herself in higher-level leagues. She understands that true greatness isn’t just about financial security—it’s about legacy, growth, and proving oneself on the biggest stage.

The Bigger Picture: A New Wave of Ambition for Chinese Players

Li Yueru’s path is inspiring a new generation of Chinese players to think beyond comfort zones. Young talents like Cui Yongxi are already following in her footsteps, choosing competition over convenience. As more Chinese players dare to step onto international stages, the level of Chinese basketball will continue to rise.

The trade to Seattle is another stepping stone in Li Yueru’s journey. She’s no longer just a talented prospect—she’s a symbol of ambition, resilience, and global ambition. Whether she blossoms into an All-Star or not, one thing is certain: her journey is far from over, and she will continue to chase greatness, no matter where it takes her.