At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Guerschon Yabusele threw down what many consider to be the dunk of the Olympics on LeBron James in Team USA and France’s gold medal game. As James went to draw a change while Yabusele drove to the hoop, the French forward elevated for a dunk reminiscent of prime Blake Griffin.
In addition to the highlight reel dunk, and a silver medal with France, Yabusele may very well have secured himself a second chance at the NBA with his stellar play. After being drafted with the 16th overall pick of the 2016 draft by the Boston Celtics, Yabusele was out of the league just a few short years later.
Now, after a remarkable run with France at the 2024 Paris Olympics, which saw Yabusele average 14.0 points per game, Yabusele could wind up back in the NBA for the 2024-25 season after impressing fans and scouts alike in Paris.
As previously mentioned, the dunk capped off a remarkable Olympic run for Yabusele, which could lead to an NBA return.
“I’m ready,” – Guerschon Yabusele looking to make a return to the NBA after strong run with France in 2024 Paris Olympics
Guerschon Yabusele’s run with Les Bleus at the 2024 Paris Olympics saw the former first-round pick drop 20 points in France’s gold medal loss to Team USA. In addition, Yabusele’s play also landed him on the All-Olympic Second Team alongside the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
After the tournament, Yabusele took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to weigh in on his future, making it clear that he’s ready for a second chance at playing in the NBA.
“Been waiting for a 2nd chance.. I’m ready”
The one obstacle to a Guerschon Yabusele return, however, is the fact that a contract buyout with Real Madrid will cost $2.5 million in the wake of the Paris Olympics, after previously being just $1 million leading up to this summer’s international competition.
Despite that, a number of teams have openings that could be filled by Yabusele, who, despite struggling from downtown during the Olympics, has shot over 40% from three in each of the past three seasons with Real Madrid.
Contenders like the Philadelphia 76ers could use Yabusele in the starting lineup, while teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers could utilize him off the bench. Another intriguing option, arguably the most intriguing option when it comes to landing spots for the French forward, is San Antonio, where he could play alongside Victor Wembanyama.
With plenty of time between now and the start of training camp, it will be interesting to see if Yabusele winds up back in the NBA for the 2024-25 season.
