"Wish we could get her on the Fever": Fans react as China's Li Yueru makes surprising WNBA decision

On Wednesday, WNBA insider Khristina Williams reported that Li Yueru had requested a trade from the Seattle Storm. Li has played just eight games for the team after arriving from the LA Sparks in a three-team trade.

Yueru played in 38 games for Los Angeles last season, averaging 5.1 points and 3.7 rebounds in 14.4 minutes. Her time on the court was reduced significantly, as she averaged only 9.1 minutes with the Storm.

According to WNBA reporter Roberta F. Rodrigues, the reason behind the trade request was the pressure from the Chinese national basketball team. They expected Li to have a bigger role in Seattle after she opted not to participate in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.

"Can confirm @Khristina’s report that Li Yueru has requested a trade from the Seattle Storm. I have been told that part of that is due to pressure from the Chinese national team since she decided to not participate in the Asia Cup to stay in the USA. They expected her to have a bigger role," Rodrigues posted on X.

She doubled down on her report shortly afterward.

"I have received even further confirmation that is China led. Their expectations were unrealistic as to what her role with the Storm would be."

Fans were not surprised by Yueru's decision.

"Makes sense, she's just holding some minutes while Dom gets adjusted and everyone knows it," one wrote.

"She plays for her country’s national team. They’re looking for a team where she’ll get a lot of playing time to keep her ready for their team," another commented.

Other fans speculated which team could acquire the 6-foot-7 center.

"Wish we could get her on the Fever," a fan said.

"she's a doll. I hope someone picks her up or makes a trade for her," a comment read.

"She's 6"7 right," a fan said. "Perfect length the Fever needs when the need comes!"

"Dallas pick up the phone," another commented.

With the Storm, Li Yueru averaged 2.9 points and 1.6 rebounds.