Li Yueru Scores 11 in 24 Minutes: How the Chinese Star Sparked Flys' Narrow Win Over Sun

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Li Yueru’s First Double-Double in WNBA

I’ve spent over a decade analyzing defensive rotations and pick-and-roll efficiency — but nothing prepares you for watching a player make an impact not just on the stat sheet, but on team rhythm. In her second WNBA game with the Dallas Flys, Li Yueru logged 24 minutes, poured in 11 points (5-of-9 FG), hauled down nine boards — five of them offensive — and added three assists and one steal.

She didn’t come out roaring. She came out steady. That’s the kind of presence that doesn’t need flash to matter.

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The Math Behind Her Impact

Let me be blunt: Li isn’t just filling up boxes. Her rebounding efficiency, especially on the offensive glass (five boards), is critical for a team struggling to generate second-chance points. With Dallas averaging only 8.7 offensive rebounds per game this season, every extra possession counts.

And here’s where it gets interesting: her one made three-pointer? It wasn’t just clean shooting — it came at a pivotal moment late in the third quarter when Connecticut started closing the gap. A small sample size? Yes. But context matters.

Her 6-of-6 free throw shooting also speaks volumes about composure under pressure — something that rarely shows up in highlight reels but lives deep in analytics.

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How She Fits Into Modern Space Basketball

The Flys play with spacing — they’re not running classic triangle offense like Phil Jackson used to preach, but they do prioritize floor balance and movement off ball screens.

Li isn’t your typical big man who stands near the block waiting for entry passes. She cuts hard into space when open, sets screens that free up guards like Buxton or James… she moves like someone who understands spatial awareness better than most players twice her age.

It reminds me of how Kawhi Leonard used to move without touching the ball during his Spurs days — not flashy, but essential.

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Why This Matters Beyond One Game

The real story here isn’t just about individual stats or heroics; it’s about role definition. In international basketball circles, we often debate whether foreign players can adapt quickly to American systems.

Li has already shown she can do more than survive — she can influence flow.

At 3-11 overall, Dallas is still far from contention this season. But two wins against tough teams? That changes narrative energy fast.

And let’s be honest: if you’re building depth for next year or scouting future rosters… watch how Li handles pressure situations early in games versus late ones.

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Final Thoughts: Data Meets Drama?

I’ve always believed basketball is poetry written in angles and percentages — half science, half soul. Now watch Li Yueru step onto that court with calm precision. No need for theatrics; her presence alone shifts weight across the floor like gravity pulling toward equilibrium.