Guerschon Yabusele Set to Make NBA Return with Philadelphia 76ers
French forward Guerschon Yabusele is poised to make a significant impact in the NBA, with a reported one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. Yabusele, who captured the attention of the basketball world with his stellar performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is leaving Real Madrid to join the league once more.
Olympic Stardom
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Yabusele emerged as one of France’s key players, becoming the team's second-leading scorer. His averages of 14 points and 3.3 rebounds per game, coupled with a shooting efficiency of 52% from the field, underscore his offensive prowess. Yabusele's standout moment came during the quarterfinals against Canada, where he scored 22 points, propelling France into the semifinals. In the gold-medal match against Team USA, he contributed 20 points, cementing his status as a vital player for France.
Initially starting on the bench, Yabusele’s elevation to the starting lineup during the Olympics showcased his versatility and commitment. In contrast to veterans like Rudy Gobert and Evan Fournier, who struggled during the group stage, Yabusele, alongside Isaia Cordinier, became a dependable scoring option for the French team.
From Real Madrid to Philadelphia
Yabusele's decision to leave Real Madrid comes as he was working on a buyout agreement, despite having one year left on his $2.5 million contract. Over the past three seasons, he had made significant strides in his development with Real Madrid, transforming into a versatile forward known for his strength inside and his ability to shoot three-pointers.
This move to the 76ers marks Yabusele’s second stint in the NBA. Having been drafted 16th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, Yabusele's initial run in the NBA was less than stellar. He appeared in just 74 games over two seasons, averaging six minutes per game before being waived by the Celtics in the summer of 2019. Following his departure from the NBA, Yabusele played in France and China before securing a spot with Real Madrid, where he has since honed his skills.
Second Chance with the 76ers
Yabusele is eagerly anticipating his return to the NBA, expressing his readiness for this new chapter in his career. As he stated on X, "Been waiting for a 2nd chance.. I'm ready." His statement reflects a determination and readiness to seize this opportunity and make a meaningful contribution to the 76ers.
The Philadelphia 76ers, recognizing his talents and potential impact, have placed their confidence in Yabusele. Known for his blend of strength and shooting ability, he brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the team. The Sixers' addition of Yabusele is expected to fortify their lineup, adding depth and skill to the roster as they aim to make a strong push in the upcoming season.
Yabusele’s journey from a waived NBA player to an Olympic standout and a key asset in one of Europe’s top teams is a testament to his resilience and growth. 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. With his renewed focus and determination, Yabusele is poised to make a lasting impression in his second act on basketball’s biggest stage.