French Phenom Guerschon Yabusele Eyes NBA Return
As the 2024 Olympic men's basketball tournament wrapped up, it became clear that Guerschon Yabusele is determined to make his mark, once again, in the basketball world. Averaging an impressive 14 points throughout the tournament and even executing a dunk over the towering LeBron James, Yabusele showed that he's not just here to play, but to dominate.
Yabusele, who was the No. 16 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, hasn't played in the NBA since 2019. Despite this, his performances on the international stage, alongside stars like Stephen Curry, Nikola Jokic, and the young sensation Victor Wembanyama, have reignited interest in his skills.
Currently contracted with Real Madrid for another season, Yabusele's future hangs in a delicate balance. His contract includes a hefty $2.5 million buyout clause, which would have been significantly cheaper—$1 million—had it been activated before July 15. However, NBA teams are restricted to contributing only $850,000 towards a player's international buyout, leaving Yabusele with the remaining $1.65 million to handle on his own.
This financial hurdle is significant, considering Yabusele's earnings on a one-year guaranteed minimum contract in the NBA would be less than $2.1 million, given his two years of NBA service. The risk is only compounded if he were to secure merely a training camp invite, potentially losing his Real Madrid contract and being responsible for the substantial buyout payment without the certainty of securing an NBA roster spot.
However, the French forward remains undeterred. “Been waiting for a 2nd chance... I'm ready,” Yabusele asserted, exuding confidence and readiness for his potential American comeback. His shooting efficiency from beyond the arc has been impressive, boasting a 40.7% success rate on 3.3 attempts per game in his international career, a statistic that surely makes NBA scouts take notice.
With more than a month to go before NBA training camps begin, Yabusele has ample time to weigh his options. His performance in the Olympics has only strengthened his case, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest levels of the sport. The decision to stay in Europe or return to the NBA will certainly be influenced by multiple factors, including financial considerations, career stability, and his personal ambitions.
Yabusele's journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. From being a first-round NBA pick to playing overseas and now considering a return to the American courts, his story is a testament to resilience and passion for the game. As the basketball world waits in anticipation, fans and analysts alike ponder the impact Yabusele could make should he decide to re-enter the NBA arena.
For now, all eyes are on the man who continues to prove his worth, no matter where he plays. Whether donning the jersey of Real Madrid or an NBA team, Yabusele's determination and talent are undeniable, promising an exciting future on the court.