Very few players know the honor of dunking on LeBron James, one of the most revered athletes in the history of basketball. James, with his remarkable basketball IQ and natural athleticism, is rarely out of position. However, this year’s Olympics provided a platform for French forward Guerschon Yabusele to etch his name into basketball history.
Six years ago, in Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference finals, a rookie named Jayson Tatum threw down a slam on LeBron James, marking arguably the most famous play of Tatum’s career. This week, Yabusele joined that exclusive club during the gold medal game between France and Team USA.
Yabusele's Olympic Moment
In the second quarter of the game, Yabusele maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter while LeBron James rotated to position himself for a charge. Unfazed, Yabusele finished with a powerful dunk and drew the foul, creating a defining highlight of his career and the tournament.
Yabusele’s highlight reel, punctuated by this iconic dunk, has cemented his place as one of the breakout stars of the Olympics. His relentless motor, strength, and shooting ability kept the opposing defenses on their toes and provided a significant advantage to France. Furthermore, France’s strategic decision to play smaller lineups and limit Rudy Gobert’s minutes during the knockout stages allowed Yabusele to shine even brighter.
Yabusele's Journey
Yabusele was drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft. Unfortunately, his initial NBA career didn’t pan out as hoped. Since 2019, he has been playing professionally abroad and is currently a member of Real Madrid. Despite the setbacks, Yabusele has expressed interest in returning to the NBA if the opportunity arises. “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back,” he told The Boston Globe’s Gary Washburn.
Over the last few years, Yabusele has honed his skills and developed a game that showcases his potential to compete at the highest level. His Olympic performance serves as a strong indicator that he has what it takes to make a successful return to the NBA.
Beyond the individual accolades and highlights, Yabusele’s recent performances have provided France with a significant advantage in international play. His versatile skill set, combined with his increased confidence, makes him a formidable opponent on the court. Whether dunking on one of the greatest basketball players of all time or capitalizing on tactical adjustments made by the French coaching staff, Yabusele has shown he belongs among the elite.
Although it remains to be seen if Yabusele will make his return to the NBA, his stirring performances on the global stage have undoubtedly turned heads and sparked interest. For now, he stands as a testament to perseverance and the impact of seizing the moment when the opportunity arises.
Guerschon Yabusele’s journey is a captivating narrative in the world of sports, defined by setbacks, determination, and unforgettable highlights. His dunk on LeBron James is not merely a play; it symbolizes his growth and potential in the sport he loves.