Guerschon Yabusele Has Proven He Belongs in the NBA

With the 16th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics drafted Guerschon Yabusele. Despite limited playing time during his two-year stint in Boston (2017-2019) — averaging just 2.3 points and 2.6 rebounds over 6.6 minutes per game — Yabusele’s potential as a physical presence in the paint was evident. Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 260 pounds, Yabusele was tasked with using his size to slow down opposing post players. However, with a Celtics roster stacked with All-Stars and rising stars — Kyrie Irving, Gordon Hayward, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Al Horford, and Marcus Smart — opportunities for the 22-year-old rookie to showcase his skills were scarce. After being waived in 2019, Yabusele sought to expand his offensive game overseas. Yabusele’s career blossomed internationally. He spent one season with the Nanjing Monkey Kings of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), followed by a season with ASVEL Basket in France’s LNB Pro A League. He then found his stride over three seasons with Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid in the Euroleague. During this period, Yabusele showcased his growth as a scorer and a shooter, averaging around 10 points and five rebounds per game while hitting 40% of his three-point attempts on about three shots per contest. The basketball world took notice of Yabusele’s development during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Representing Team France, he emerged as the squad’s second-leading scorer behind Victor Wembanyama, averaging 14 points per game. In a standout moment during the Gold Medal Game against Team USA, Yabusele delivered a thunderous dunk over LeBron James, highlighting his athleticism and skill on the biggest stage. Although Team France fell short of gold, Yabusele’s Olympic performance earned him a spot back in the NBA. In the 2024 offseason, the Philadelphia 76ers signed Yabusele to a one-year, $2.1 million contract, allowing him to prove his growth and make a mark in the league.

Been waiting for a 2nd chance.. I’m ready 😤🧸

— Guerschon Yabusele (@yabusele28) August 11, 2024

So far this season, Yabusele has provided valuable minutes off the bench for the Sixers, contributing energy, defensive versatility, and timely scoring. The Dancing Bear is averaging 9.8 points (50% FG, 39% 3PT), 5.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists over 24.5 minutes per game. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting and physicality in the paint has added depth to Philadelphia’s frontcourt rotation.

Is Guerschon Yabusele worth a multi-year contract extension with the 76ers this offseason?

After a 6 year Hiatus, he's averaging

9.8PPG
5.1RPG
1.8 APG
51% FG
40% from 3

What a steal by Morey this Offseason to get him for the Minimum. pic.twitter.com/HpRHwz5JDX

— Sixers Lead (@SixersLead) January 8, 2025

He has played in all 34 matchups thus far, starting in 13. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Yabusele continues to build on his impressive comeback and solidify his role in the NBA.

Thank God for this amazing year. May 2025 be even better 🤲🏾🖤 pic.twitter.com/6yIs9ZHS08

— Guerschon Yabusele (@yabusele28) January 4, 2025

Guerschon Yabusele over his last 8 games:

– 11.9 PPG
– 5.4 RPG
– 1.0 SPG
– 54/43/82 splits
– 69% true shooting
– 5-3 record

From out of the league for 6 years to a vital role player. What a journey. pic.twitter.com/INzwF8JrNk

— The Lead (@TheLeadSM) January 8, 2025