Li Yueru is a Chinese professional basketball player who currently plays center for the Seattle Storm in the WNBA. Known for her size, skill, and dominance in the paint, Yueru has established herself as one of the top international centers in women’s basketball.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Li Yueru
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Date of Birth: March 28, 1999
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Hometown: Changzhi, Shanxi, China
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Height: 6’7″ (2.01 m)
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Weight: 245 lbs (111 kg)
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Position: Center
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Early Career:
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Recognized early for her exceptional height and basketball potential
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Began playing basketball as a way to fit in and excel among her peers
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Quickly rose through the ranks in Chinese youth basketball
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Family:
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Both parents are exceptionally tall, which contributed to her stature
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Encouraged by her family to pursue basketball as a way to find confidence and community
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College and Youth Career
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Did not play college basketball in the United States; developed in China
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Youth Achievements:
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FIBA U16 Women’s Asian Championship (2015):
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Led China to gold
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Averaged 22.1 points and 16.1 rebounds per game
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FIBA U18 Women’s Asian Championship (2016):
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Led China to gold
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Averaged 15.9 points and 13.9 rebounds per game
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Professional Career
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China:
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Guangdong Dolphins (2015–2020):
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Multiple-time WCBA champion
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Inner Mongolia (2020–2023):
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Continued dominance in the WCBA
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WNBA:
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Draft: 2019, 3rd round (35th overall), Atlanta Dream
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Chicago Sky (2022):
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16 games, limited minutes
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Los Angeles Sparks (2024):
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38 games, 5.1 points, 3.7 rebounds per game
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Seattle Storm (2025–present):
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Acquired via trade and signed to a contract
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International Club:
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Beşiktaş (Turkey, 2023–2024):
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Played during WNBA offseason
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Galatasaray (Turkey, 2024–2025):
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Played during WNBA offseason
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International and National Team Career
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Chinese National Team:
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Debuted as a teenager at the senior level
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2022 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup:
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Gold medal
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2020 Tokyo Olympics:
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Reached quarterfinals
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Averaged 14.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, shooting 78.6% from the field
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Achievements & Honors
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Seattle Storm (WNBA, 2025–present)
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Multiple-time WCBA champion (Guangdong Dolphins, Inner Mongolia)
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FIBA U16 and U18 Women’s Asian Championship gold medalist
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FIBA Women’s Asia Cup gold medalist (2022)
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Represented China at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics
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WNBA Playoffs appearance (Chicago Sky, 2022)
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Known for elite efficiency and dominance in the paint
Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Elite size and post presence
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Strong rebounding and scoring efficiency
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Soft touch around the rim
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High basketball IQ and leadership
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Clutch performer in big games
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Style:
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Physical, skilled center who excels in the paint
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Brings toughness, championship experience, and a team-first mentality
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FAQs About Li Yueru
What position does Li Yueru play?
Center
Which team does she play for?
Seattle Storm (WNBA)
How old is Li Yueru?
26 (born March 28, 1999)
What are her main achievements?
Multiple-time WCBA champion, FIBA U16 and U18 Asian Championship gold medalist, FIBA Women’s Asia Cup gold medalist, Chinese national team standout, WNBA roster
What is her playing style?
Dominant, physical center with elite scoring and rebounding
Conclusion
Li Yueru is a formidable and accomplished center whose size, skill, and championship pedigree have made her a valuable asset for the Seattle Storm and a respected figure in global women’s basketball.
(Age, statistics, and honors are as of June 2025.)
