Guerschon Yabusele to Sign with Philadelphia 76ers
French forward Guerschon Yabusele is set to make a return to the NBA, as he is expected to sign a one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. This marks Yabusele's second stint in the league, having been drafted 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft.
Yabusele showcased impressive form in the recent 2024 Paris Olympics, emerging as a key player for the French national team. Averaging 14 points and 3.3 rebounds per game, Yabusele displayed a shooting efficiency of 52% from the field. His standout performance saw him becoming France's second-leading scorer, earning praise and recognition.
In one of his most memorable games during the tournament, Yabusele scored 22 points in the quarterfinals against Canada, helping France advance to the semifinals. As the Olympics progressed, he was promoted from the bench to the starting lineup, filling a crucial role alongside Isaia Cordinier in the French offense.
Despite early struggles from veterans Rudy Gobert and Evan Fournier in the group stage, Yabusele stepped up to the challenge. In the gold-medal match against Team USA, he recorded 20 points, solidifying his reputation as a reliable scoring option.
Before this potential move to the NBA, Yabusele was with Real Madrid, where he had developed into a versatile forward over the last three seasons. Known for his strength inside and three-point shooting ability, Yabusele had one year left on his $2.5 million contract with Real Madrid. However, he is currently working on a buyout agreement.
Yabusele's journey has been one of resilience and continuous improvement. After his first stint in the NBA, where he appeared in just 74 games over two seasons with the Celtics, Yabusele averaged a mere six minutes per game. He was subsequently waived by Boston in the summer of 2019. This led him to play in France and China before finding a significant role with Real Madrid.
Reflecting on his return to the NBA, Yabusele expressed his readiness and excitement on social media, saying, "Been waiting for a 2nd chance... I'm ready."
The Philadelphia 76ers have invested in Yabusele, recognizing his potential impact on the team. His performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics has evidently bolstered their confidence in his abilities. As he prepares to transition back to the NBA, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching to see how Yabusele’s international experience and development will translate to the American courts.
With his proven versatility and scoring prowess, Yabusele's addition to the 76ers roster could provide the team with a valuable asset as they aim to strengthen their lineup heading into the new season. His journey exemplifies the dedication and determination required to excel at the highest levels of professional basketball, and his upcoming role with the 76ers stands as a testament to the hard work and skill he has demonstrated on the court.