Very few players know the honor of dunking on LeBron James, one of the most revered athletes in the history of basketball. Known for his exceptional basketball IQ and formidable athleticism, James is seldom caught out of position.
However, history remembers those rare instances when someone manages to slip past him. For Jayson Tatum, his memorable dunk on LeBron during Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals remains a career highlight. But Tatum is not alone in this elite club.
Guerschon Yabusele's Olympic Highlight
This year's Olympics added a new name to the list. French forward Guerschon Yabusele stunned audiences when he dunked on LeBron James during the gold medal game between France and Team USA. The moment came in the second quarter, as Yabusele maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter. James rotated to position himself for a charge, only to witness Yabusele finishing with a powerful dunk, drawing the foul in the process.
Yabusele's performance in the tournament has been nothing short of remarkable. Regarded as one of the breakout stars, his relentless motor and strength turned him into an indomitable force inside. France's strategic move to play smaller and limit Rudy Gobert's minutes in the knockout stages further allowed Yabusele to shine. His shooting ability kept opposing defenses on their toes, making him a dual threat both inside and out.
Yabusele's journey to this point has not been straightforward. Drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, his initial stint in the NBA didn't go as planned. Since 2019, he has been playing professionally abroad, currently starring for Real Madrid. Despite the setback, Yabusele remains optimistic and has expressed interest in returning to the NBA if the opportunity arises. "You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back," Yabusele told The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn.
Resurgence and Potential
His recent performance in the Olympics has significantly boosted France's chances, showcasing his potential to compete at the highest level. Yabusele's dunk on LeBron James will undoubtedly be etched in basketball history, a testament to his hard work and perseverance.
While Yabusele's initial NBA career may not have panned out as hoped, his time with Real Madrid and his standout performance in the Olympics indicate that he has grown as a player. Now, with a potential NBA return on the horizon, he has more to offer than ever before.
As the basketball world continues to evolve, moments like Yabusele's dunk remind us of the ever-present potential for greatness. Whether he returns to the NBA or continues to dominate internationally, Yabusele has cemented his place in the annals of basketball history, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter of his career.