Guerschon Yabusele Set to Make His NBA Return with Philadelphia 76ers
French forward Guerschon Yabusele is poised to make a grand return to the NBA by signing a one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. This move comes after a standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Yabusele emerged as France's second-leading scorer, showcasing his skills on a global stage.
Olympic Stardom
During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Yabusele averaged 14 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency was an impressive 52% from the field. His stellar play was particularly notable during the quarterfinals against Canada, where he scored 22 points to help France advance to the semifinals. Initially starting on the bench, Yabusele's performance earned him a spot in the starting lineup, indicating his rising influence on the team.
In the gold-medal match against Team USA, Yabusele continued to shine, scoring 20 points despite France's loss. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure made him a key scoring option alongside Isaia Cordinier, especially as veterans Rudy Gobert and Evan Fournier struggled during the group stage.
From Real Madrid to Philadelphia
Yabusele is leaving European powerhouse Real Madrid, where he has developed significantly over the past three seasons. Known for his strength inside and his ability to shoot three-pointers, Yabusele had one year left on his $2.5 million contract. The forward is currently working on a buyout agreement to facilitate his move to the 76ers. This transition marks his second stint in the NBA.
Yabusele was originally 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 by the Celtics in the summer of 2019. After his departure, Yabusele played in France and China before joining Real Madrid, where he evolved into a versatile forward.
A Second Chance
The 76ers' decision to sign Yabusele stems from their confidence in his abilities and potential to make an impact. Reflecting on this opportunity, Yabusele took to social media to express his readiness. "Been waiting for a 2nd chance.. I'm ready," he shared on X, demonstrating his eagerness to return to the NBA and prove himself.
With his diverse skill set and international experience, Yabusele brings a unique blend of talent to Philadelphia. His journey from being a bench player in the Olympics to a key contributor underscores his resilience and determination. As the 76ers continue to build their roster, Yabusele's addition is expected to bolster their frontcourt and provide much-needed depth.
For Yabusele, this move signifies not just a return to the NBA, but also an opportunity to redefine his career. His recent performances suggest that he is well-prepared to seize this second chance and make a lasting impression in the league.