SEATTLE — After Thursday’s practice, Seattle Storm center Li Yueru explained her request for a trade reported Wednesday by saying she was enjoying her first season with the Storm but looking for more playing time.
“I don’t feel I have enough time on the court,” said Li, a native of China who is in her third WNBA season. “I came here only to play the game. I’m really happy and appreciative because I know many teammates, I’ve made many new friends and know many different staff, coach. These really let me feel happy, and I’m so glad for that, but playing is one of the important things for me.”
Originally drafted by the Atlanta Dream in 2019 at age 19, Li made her WNBA debut with the Chicago Sky in 2022, averaging just 5.1 minutes per game. She saw more playing time with the Los Angeles Sparks last season after sitting out 2023, playing a career-high 14.4 MPG and averaging 5.1 points and 3.7 rebounds.
Acquired by the Storm as part of the trade that sent Jewell Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces and brought the No. 2 pick to Seattle, Li has played a situational role as part of the Storm’s deep…
