Very few have experienced the rare honor of dunking on LeBron James, one of the most highly regarded athletes in basketball history. Known for his remarkable basketball IQ and natural athleticism, James is rarely caught out of position on the court. Yet, among the select few who have managed to achieve this feat is Jayson Tatum, who, as a rookie, famously threw down a slam on James during Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals.
Fast forward to the present year’s Olympics, another name has been added to this exclusive list - French forward Guerschon Yabusele. During the gold medal game between France and Team USA, Yabusele delivered a highlight-reel moment that will be remembered for years to come.
A Gold Medal Dunk
In the second quarter of the decisive match, Yabusele bypassed Devin Booker on the perimeter. As LeBron James rotated to set himself for a charge, Yabusele seized the moment. With sheer power and agility, the Frenchman elevated for a commanding dunk, drawing a foul in the process. This play not only showcased Yabusele’s athletic prowess but also symbolized his emergence as one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
Strategic Brilliance
Much of Yabusele’s Olympic success can be attributed to France’s strategic decision to play smaller lineups and limit Rudy Gobert’s minutes during the knockout stages. Yabusele’s relentless energy and strength transformed him into an imposing force on the inside. His shooting ability kept opposing defenses constantly on alert, further enhancing his impact on the game.
Drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, Yabusele's initial NBA career didn’t unfold as planned. Since 2019, he has been playing professionally abroad, currently making his mark with Real Madrid. However, his recent performances on the international stage have reignited conversations about his potential return to the NBA. Reflecting on his aspirations, Yabusele candidly shared with The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back.”
Potential for Return
Yabusele’s standout moment against LeBron, coupled with his consistent contributions throughout the tournament, have given France a significant edge. His performance revealed a player ready to compete at the highest levels of basketball, perhaps even in the NBA once again. With his name now etched in basketball history, Yabusele has demonstrated both his current capabilities and his potential for future success.
While his path to this pinnacle has been unconventional, Yabusele's journey stands as testimony to perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. It will be intriguing to see how his career evolves, and whether the NBA door will open for him once again. For now, Guerschon Yabusele has earned his place among those who’ve managed to shine on the world’s biggest stages, punctuated by his unforgettable dunk over one of basketball’s greatest icons.