ARLINGTON, TX — A significant shift occurred on Tuesday night as Li Yueru stepped into the starting center position for the Dallas Wings, leading to their 68-55 victory over the Atlanta Dream. This change came as a surprise since Myisha Hines-Allen had primarily filled that role throughout the first 15 games of the 2025 season.
Yueru, who stands at 6’7”, was acquired from the Seattle Storm in a trade earlier in June and proved to be an asset against the Dream and their star player, Brittney Griner. Despite the challenge of facing a future Hall of Famer, Yueru thrived with an impressive performance, recording a double-double with 10 points and 15 rebounds, while also contributing one assist and a steal.
Griner managed only two points and six rebounds during the game, a testament to Yueru’s ability to contain her. After the game, Yueru expressed her excitement about facing Griner, acknowledging her as “the best post player in the league.”
Yueru’s integration into the team appears to be smooth, as Arike Ogunbowale praised her contributions, noting her smart gameplay and strong performance that energized the team. Ogunbowale highlighted Yueru’s effective screens and rebounding, affirming, “She’s a really great player and I’m glad she’s on our team.”
The current situation leaves Yueru as a likely starter for the foreseeable future, especially with other centers Teaira McCowan and Luisa Geiselsoder participating in EuroBasket and not available until early July. Once they return, it will present new challenges for head coach Chris Koclanes in deciding the starting lineup.
Yueru, while not assured a permanent starting role, certainly made a strong case for herself. Koclanes praised her composure against Griner, emphasizing her intelligence and physicality on the court.
Looking ahead, the Wings aim to maintain their momentum in their upcoming games, particularly on Friday against the Indiana Fever at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. The anticipation surrounding this matchup, along with their next game against the Washington Mystics, offers the Wings an opportunity to build on this latest success. With Yueru playing such a critical role, fans can expect her to continue making an impact as the season progresses.