The Seattle Storm's Li Yueru has requested a trade from the team, Khristina Williams reported on June 4.
The news preceded the announcement that the WNBA has launched an investigation into the Storm's coaches.
Williams' report was also backed up by WNBA reporter Roberta F. Rodrigues, who noted, "I have been told that part of that is due to pressure from the Chinese national team since she decided to not participate in the Asia Cup to stay in the USA. They expected her to have a bigger role."
"I have received even further confirmation that is China led. Their expectations were unrealistic as to what her role with the Storm would be," Rodrigues later added. She did not offer an explanation for who confirmed this information.
Yueru would be the second player to depart the franchise after Jewell Loyd left this year.