Dallas – The Dallas Wings announced Tuesday that veteran center Li Yueru will not travel to Berlin for the opening round of the FIBA World Cup. The 27‑year‑old Chinese international said a lost passport, still missing after being mailed, has left her unable to leave the United States.
Player’s statement
Li posted an Instagram update on Wednesday, explaining the situation: “Unfortunately, my passport was lost in the mail and still hasn’t been found. Throughout this time, we’ve all been working hard together and exploring every possible solution, but maybe we were just a little short on luck this time. As of today, the passport is still missing.”
She added that the national team has always made her feel valued and that representing China has been “a tremendous honor.” The loss means she cannot join China’s squad, which is slated to open the tournament on Friday against the United States.
Career background
Li was selected in the third round of the 2019 WNBA Draft by the Atlanta Dream but did not make her league debut until 2022 with the Chicago Sky. After a year off, she returned in 2024 and has since played for the Los Angeles Sparks, Seattle Storm and, most recently, the Dallas Wings. In 114 career games she averages 4.4 points, 3.3 rebounds and 12.7 minutes per contest. This season, as a backup for Dallas, she is averaging 3.3 points, 2.6 rebounds and 10.3 minutes over 29 games.
Li’s international résumé includes leading China at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she posted 17.7 points and 11.0 rebounds per game.
Impact on the Wings and the World Cup
While Li’s absence is a disappointment for the Chinese national team, the Wings remain focused on their WNBA campaign. Head coach Vickie Johnson praised Li’s professionalism, noting that the player has continued to give her best in practice despite the setback.
For China, the loss of a 6‑foot‑7 frontcourt presence will force the coaching staff to adjust rotations ahead of the high‑profile opening matchup against the United States. The team will rely on other bigs to fill the void left by Li’s experience and size.
What’s next?
Li said she will continue to work with the Wings and hopes to resolve the passport issue quickly so she can rejoin the national team for later rounds, if possible. The Wings will keep fans updated on any developments and remain committed to competing for a playoff spot in the 2026 WNBA season.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
