Image Credit: Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Wings Sign Center Li Yueru After Defensive Struggles and 1–11 Start

WNBA’s bottom-ranked side makes a crucial move for size and shooting by acquiring Li Yueru

Image Credit: Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Wings have sought out to fix their on-court woes by making a move in the market. The Wings are currently enduring the worst record in the 2025 WNBA season. They are currently at the last position of the table with a record of 1-11.

Offensively, Wings are stacked with talent, especially after acquiring Paige Bueckers. But it’s the defense that has consistently let them down throughout the season. Despite offensive production, the Wings have regularly squandered leads due to poor defense.

They have lacked a big in the paint, which has proven to be an advantage for the opposition. Following their 11th defeat, the front office acted by signing a much-needed presence in the paint. Li Yueru has been traded to the Wings from Seattle Storm.

Excited to see Li Yueru team up with Paige Bueckers❤️ https://t.co/tprdAidqp5
— Chinese Women's Hoop Show (@CWHoopShow) June 14, 2025

General Manager Curt Miller gave away the 2026 second-round pick, which includes the right to swap with the Connecticut Sun, and its 2027 third-round pick, which includes the right to swap with the Indiana Fever, in the deal. To free up cap space, the Wings waived backup guard Kaila Charles to accommodate Yueru’s arrival.

Wings Respond to EuroBasket Exodus

The Dallas Wings also have a bleak presence when it comes to their defensive line. Key players have exited to participate in the FIBA EuroBasket tournament, further weakening the roster. Teaira McCowan has joined the Turkish national team, while Luisa Geiselsoder will suit up for Germany.

The Dallas Wings already had a huge hole to fill due to the international competition in Europe. On the other hand, Li Yueru requested a trade away from Seattle Storm. She was not happy with the lack of minutes and accepted a move to the Dallas Wings.

Yueru’s arrival could also ease the Wings’ long-range shooting struggles, offering a spark from beyond the arc. The 26-year-old has impressed from deep, hitting 50% from three (2-of-4 attempts) this season and 91.7% from the free throw line. Her presence at both ends could take pressure off Paige Bueckers, who has carried the offensive load so far.