Guerschon Yabusele, one of the standout performers from the men’s basketball tournament at the 2024 Olympics, is making his return to the NBA. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Yabusele has signed a one-year, $2.1 million minimum contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. The news, initially reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, has generated significant excitement among fans eager to see Yabusele back in the league.
Yabusele, who had previously played in the NBA, rekindled the interest of American fans this summer as he helped lead France to a silver medal at the Olympics. The host nation put up a strong fight against the United States in a closely contested gold-medal game, ultimately falling short due to a barrage of three-pointers from Stephen Curry.
However, Yabusele also captured the spotlight with a memorable dunk over LeBron James, a moment that caught the attention of the NBA community.
Throughout the Olympic tournament, Yabusele averaged 14 points per game, establishing himself as a key player for the French team. His impressive play, especially the dunk over James, highlighted his readiness to capitalize on the renewed interest from the NBA.
Originally the 16th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, Yabusele appeared in 74 games for the Boston Celtics, where he averaged 2.3 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game while shooting 44.2 percent from the field and 32.3 percent from beyond the arc. Despite these modest numbers, his Olympic performances have revitalized his NBA prospects.
After not appearing in an NBA game since the 2018-19 season, Yabusele spent the past few years playing internationally, where he refined his skills and matured as a player. His Olympic success has earned him a contract with the Sixers, positioning him as a potential key contributor off the bench for a team filled with talent.
Philadelphia’s roster includes several impactful wing players, such as Paul George, Kelly Oubre, Caleb Martin, Jared McCain, and Eric Gordon. While competition for minutes will be intense, Yabusele might find an opportunity to carve out a role as a power forward. His blend of international experience and Olympic success could make him a valuable asset for the Sixers as they aim for a championship.
Yabusele’s journey from the Boston Celtics to Real Madrid and now to the Philadelphia 76ers is a story of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. The upcoming season will be crucial for him as he looks to make a significant impact in the league and prove that his return is not just a comeback, but the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
