When people talk about Li Yueru, you’ll often hear two nicknames thrown around—“Xiaobao” and the “Female O’Neal.” One sounds like something you’d call your little sister.

Malonga, the No. 2 overall WNBA draft pick, watched in street clothes at the end of the bench while Nneka Ogwumike scored a game-high 18 points and Li Yueru added 15 points and 10 rebounds to lead ...