On July 28, the Chinese Women’s Basketball Team played their first match of the Olympic group stage against Spain. In the first half, the Chinese team, contrary to their previous lackluster exhibition games, showed a very proactive attitude. Particularly notable was Li Yu’er, who had just returned from the WNBA and demonstrated her prowess as the core of China’s frontcourt. Li Yu’er scored 10 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, made 1 assist, and blocked 1 shot in the first half, all while maintaining a plus-minus rating of +10, the highest of the game.
In the opening quarter, Li Yu’er immediately stood out. She first assisted Sun Mengran with an interior pass for a score, then cleverly turned and scored herself. Following this, Li Meng and Li Yu’er connected, allowing Li Yu’er to continue scoring. On defense, Li Yu’er also performed excellently. Facing Gustafson, another WNBA player, Li Yu’er showed no fear, successfully defending and delivering a big block. Later, Li Yu’er continued to draw fouls and make free throws, as well as grabbing offensive rebounds and scoring.
In the second quarter, Spain closed the gap while Li Yu’er was off the court. After Li Yu’er re-entered the game, the Chinese team began to stabilize. Thanks to Li Yu’er’s screens, the Chinese team made several successful shots. Towards the end of the second quarter, Li Yu’er drew another foul and scored from the free-throw line, bringing her personal score into double digits. Li Yu’er then continued to grab offensive rebounds, although she unfortunately missed her attempts. At halftime, the Chinese team led 37-33.