French forward Guerschon Yabusele is poised to make a significant return to the NBA, as he is expected to sign a one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. This move marks Yabusele's second stint in the league, and it comes on the heels of an impressive performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he distinguished himself as France's second-leading scorer.
A Stellar Olympic Performance
Yabusele showcased his growth and talent during the Olympics, averaging 14 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency stood out, as he posted a remarkable 52% from the field. Notably, in the quarterfinals against Canada, Yabusele played a crucial role by scoring 22 points, helping France advance to the semifinals.
The forward's journey at the Olympics saw him moving from the bench to the starting lineup, an elevation that underscored his impact and importance to the team. Alongside Isaia Cordinier, Yabusele emerged as a key scoring option for France, especially as veterans Rudy Gobert and Evan Fournier struggled during the group stage. His performance peaked in the gold-medal match against Team USA, where he put up 20 points, reflecting his consistent scoring ability under high pressure.
Leaving Real Madrid
Yabusele's impending move to the 76ers also means his departure from Real Madrid, where he had one year left on a $2.5 million contract. Discussions for a buyout are reportedly in progress. Over the past three seasons, Yabusele has honed his skills and developed into a versatile forward, known for his strength inside and his proficiency in shooting three-pointers.
This next step in his career signifies a pivotal moment for Yabusele, who had initially been drafted 16th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. During his first run in the NBA, he appeared in just 74 games over two seasons, averaging six minutes per game before being waived in the summer of 2019. After leaving the Celtics, Yabusele embarked on an overseas journey, playing in France and China before finding a home with Real Madrid.
A Second Chance
Now, with the Philadelphia 76ers, Yabusele is looking to make a lasting impact. "Been waiting for a 2nd chance.. I'm ready," he expressed on X, signaling his readiness to embrace this new opportunity. The 76ers' confidence in his abilities and potential to contribute significantly to the team is evident in their decision to bring him on board.
Yabusele's journey is a testament to his resilience and growth as a player. From a brief stint in the NBA to becoming a standout performer on the international stage, and now gearing up for a return to the world's premier basketball league, Yabusele's story is one of determination and continual improvement. As he prepares to don the 76ers jersey, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his talents translate back to the NBA and how he leverages this second chance to establish himself as a formidable presence in the league.