Very few players can lay claim to the rare honor of dunking on LeBron James, one of the most revered athletes in the history of basketball. Known for his exceptional basketball IQ and natural athleticism, James is seldom caught out of position. Yet, the annals of basketball history have recorded a few who managed this feat—the latest being French forward Guerschon Yabusele.
A Historic Dunk in the Olympics
In this year's Olympics, during the gold medal game between France and Team USA, Yabusele achieved what many consider an extraordinary moment in his career. It was the second quarter when Yabusele showcased a dazzling display of athleticism. He maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter, and as LeBron James rotated to position himself for a charge, the Frenchman finished with a powerful dunk while drawing the foul. This highlight play not only added a significant chapter to Yabusele's career but also resonated in the memory of basketball enthusiasts worldwide.
Breaking Out in the Olympics
Yabusele left an indelible mark on the tournament, emerging as one of its breakout stars. France's tactical switch to play smaller and limit Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages provided Yabusele the opportunity to shine. His relentless motor and strength turned him into an inside force, while his shooting ability kept opposing defenses guessing. This newfound spotlight allowed Yabusele to exhibit his full range of skills, proving crucial to France’s campaign.
From NBA Hopeful to International Star
Drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, Yabusele's initial NBA career didn’t unfold as hoped. After several seasons of modest impact, he ventured to pursue his career abroad, and since 2019, he has been playing professionally with Real Madrid. His journey, filled with trials and tribulations, now appears to come full circle as he expresses interest in a return to the NBA. Following his stellar Olympic performance, Yabusele mentioned to The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back.”
Solidifying His Legacy
In the grand arena of international sports, moments define careers. Yabusele’s fierce dunk over LeBron James not only cemented his place in basketball lore but also served as a strong indicator of his potential to compete at the highest level. His recent displays have given France a significant advantage and lifted his profile as a formidable player who can shape the outcomes of crucial games.
LeBron James, often considered the benchmark for defensive prowess, now shares a moment in history with Yabusele—an accolade that few players can boast. This achievement, coupled with an impressive run in the Olympics, suggests that Yabusele's journey is far from over. With aspirations to bring his talents back to the NBA, the basketball world remains eagerly on watch to see what the future holds for this determined and talented athlete.