Yao Ming Inspires WNBA Star Li Yueru to Shine

Yao Ming inspires Li Yueru, the Dallas Wings center, as her basketball role model.

What sparked the inspiration?

Li Yueru looked up to Yao Ming as a cultural icon and example to model her game. She had no family members who played sports, so Yao Ming became her inspiration.

Why is Yao Ming's legacy important?

Yao Ming played eight seasons in the NBA, averaging 19.0 points per game, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocked shots. He was an All-Star every year, except the 2009-10 season due to injury.

How has Li Yueru's career progressed?

Li Yueru has settled into a starting role with the Wings, averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. She began the 2025 WNBA season with the Seattle Storm before being traded to the Wings. Li Yueru has appeared in 12 games for the Wings, including nine starts, at 24 minutes per game. She's shooting 46.8 percent from the field, 43.5 percent from the three-point line, and 85.7 percent from the free-throw line. Yao Ming's impact on Chinese basketball players is evident in Li Yueru's success. Li Yueru wants to make a name for Chinese players in the WNBA, just like Yao Ming did in the NBA. The WNBA star aims to let people know that Chinese players can achieve great things. Yao Ming's career was cut short due to injuries, but his legacy lives on through players like Li Yueru. Li Yueru's journey is a testament to Yao Ming's enduring influence on basketball.