Li Yueru is a notable WNBA player from China, recognized for her remarkable contributions to women’s basketball. Starting her career at 15 with the Guangdong Dolphins, she excelled in both domestic and European leagues. Drafted by the Atlanta Dream in 2019, she has played for multiple teams, achieving an impressive average of 14.4 points in the 2024 season. Her standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics further solidified her status. There is much more to uncover about her path and achievements.
Early Life
Li Yueru began her basketball expedition at a young age, demonstrating remarkable talent and dedication early on. By the age of 15, she initiated her professional career in the Womens Chinese Basketball Association with the Guangdong Dolphins.
Throughout her four seasons with the team, she averaged 13.1 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, quickly establishing herself as a key player in the league. In addition to her domestic career, Yueru’s passion for the sport led her to compete in European leagues, where she further honed her skills.
Significantly, she has also represented the Chinese National Team at the Olympics, displaying her talent on an international stage.
Family Life
Li Yueru began her professional basketball career at just 15 years old, with family support playing a crucial role in her success. Her parents, who have been her biggest supporters, encouraged her passion for basketball, helping her shift from the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association to the WNBA.
Despite her busy schedule as a professional athlete, Yueru maintains close ties with her family, often expressing gratitude for their steadfast encouragement. She takes immense pride in representing her family and country on the global stage as a two-time Olympian, highlighting the notable role family pride plays in her achievements.
Career
Li Yueru began her professional career at the young age of 15 with the Guangdong Dolphins in the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association, where she quickly made a name for herself by averaging 13.1 points and 7.5 rebounds.
She entered the WNBA when she was drafted 35th overall by the Atlanta Dream in 2019. Throughout her career, she has played for notable teams including the Chicago Sky and the Los Angeles Sparks, before joining the Seattle Storm.
During her impressive 2024 season with the Sparks, Yueru demonstrated her skills by averaging 14.4 points and 5.1 rebounds, marking a considerable rise in her performance metrics.
Her growth is apparent, especially considering her average of just 5.1 points per game in the 2022 season. Furthermore, Yueru had a standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, leading the Chinese National Team with averages of 17.7 points and 11 rebounds while shooting an impressive 63% from the field, further solidifying her status as a key player in women’s basketball.
Net Worth
Li Yueru’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. As a prominent WNBA player and two-time Olympian, her financial earnings are derived from a combination of her WNBA salary, international contracts, and endorsements.
In the WNBA, she has drawn a salary of approximately $200,000 per season. During her international career, Yueru earned notable salaries such as $250,000 with Galatasaray, $300,000 in her previous stint with another European club, and $150,000 for a season in a different international league.
Moreover, her status as a leading figure in women’s basketball likely allows her to secure lucrative sponsorship and endorsement deals, further contributing to her total wealth.
The financial landscape for WNBA players is evolving, and as media rights and sponsorship opportunities expand, the potential for increased salaries and net worth for players like Li Yueru is promising.