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. Six years ago, in Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference finals, a rookie named Jayson Tatum threw down a slam on James. That moment remains arguably the most famous play of Tatum’s career.
This year's Olympics featured another player joining the exclusive club of athletes who have dunked on LeBron James: French forward Guerschon Yabusele. Yabusele’s highlight moment came during the gold medal game between France and Team USA. In the second quarter, Yabusele maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter while LeBron James rotated to position himself for a charge. The Frenchman finished with a powerful dunk and drew the foul, adding a highlight to his growing résumé.
Yabusele has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the tournament, thanks not only to that jaw-dropping dunk but also to his overall stellar performance. France's tactical decision to play smaller and limit Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages allowed Yabusele to shine. His relentless motor and strength turned him into a dominant force inside the paint, and his shooting ability kept opposing defenses on their toes.
Yabusele’s Basketball Journey
Yabusele’s basketball journey started with promise as he was drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft. However, his initial NBA career did not pan out as hoped. Since 2019, he has been playing professionally abroad and is currently a member of Real Madrid. Despite the twists and turns in his career, Yabusele has never lost sight of his ultimate dream: to compete at the highest level.
His recent performance in the Olympics has significantly bolstered France's chances and served as a strong indicator of his potential. France’s tactical shift provided Yabusele with the perfect platform to showcase his talents, a move that significantly paid off.
The Dunk Heard Around the World
Yabusele’s dunk on LeBron James is not just a spectacular play; it has cemented his place in the annals of basketball history. Such moments are rare and are often remembered as defining points in a player’s career. For Yabusele, it was a statement—one that he belongs on the biggest stages of basketball. His powerful dunk against one of the game's greatest players speaks volumes about his courage, skill, and the relentless work he has put into his craft.
A Future in the NBA?
Yabusele has expressed interest in returning to the NBA if the opportunity arises. In an interview with The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, he remarked, “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back.” His statement is part plea, part confidence in his ability to contribute effectively to an NBA team. Given his recent form and the caliber of his performances, it wouldn’t be surprising if NBA teams took notice.
For now, Guerschon Yabusele remains a key player for Real Madrid, continuing to hone his skills and contribute at the highest levels of basketball. With his eyes set on an NBA return, his journey is far from over, and if his Olympic performance is any indication, the best is yet to come.
Yabusele's journey, marked by ups and downs, hard work, and an unwavering belief in his abilities, is a testament to his determination. As he continues to build on his recent successes, basketball fans around the world eagerly await what he will accomplish next, both on the international stage and perhaps once more in the NBA.