In the world of professional basketball, the list of athletes who have successfully dunked on LeBron James is extremely short. Known for his exceptional basketball IQ and natural athleticism, James is rarely caught out of position, making such a feat exceedingly rare and memorable.
One of those unforgettable moments occurred six years ago during Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals, when rookie Jayson Tatum fearlessly threw down a slam on James. That singular play remains a defining highlight of Tatum’s burgeoning career. Fast forward to this year's Olympics, and another name has joined this exclusive list: French forward Guerschon Yabusele.
Yabusele’s Moment in the Spotlight
During the gold medal game between France and Team USA, Yabusele captured the world's attention with a highlight reel-worthy dunk on LeBron James. The moment unfolded in the second quarter when Yabusele maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter. As James rotated to position himself for a charge, Yabusele finished with a powerful dunk and drew the foul. This moment wasn't just a display of athleticism but also a testament to Yabusele’s relentless motor and strength.
Known for his tenacity, Yabusele has been one of the standout stars of the tournament. His emergence was partly due to France's tactical decision to play smaller, reducing Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages. This shift allowed Yabusele to fully utilize his skills and become a force inside. Additionally, his shooting ability kept opposing defenses constantly on edge, showcasing his versatility.
A Journey from the NBA to International Stardom
Yabusele's rise to prominence has been anything but smooth. Drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, Yabusele's initial NBA career didn't pan out as expected. Since 2019, he has been plying his trade professionally abroad and is currently a key player for Real Madrid. Despite the setback in his NBA career, Yabusele has continued to grow and evolve as a player, with his recent performances indicating that he has the potential to compete at the highest level once again.
His commanding performance in the Olympics has given his team, France, a significant advantage. More importantly, it has cemented his place in basketball history, thanks to that iconic dunk over LeBron James. Reflecting on his time in the NBA and his aspirations for the future, Yabusele expressed his desire to return to the league if the opportunity arises. "You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back," Yabusele urged The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn.
A Bright Future Ahead
Yabusele’s breakout performances in the Olympics have not only magnified his talents on an international stage but also reignited interest in his potential NBA return. Should he continue on this trajectory, it's only a matter of time before Yabusele finds himself back in the NBA, bringing the same relentless energy and skill set that have dazzled fans and players alike during this summer’s games.
As the basketball world eagerly anticipates Yabusele’s next move, one thing is certain: his dunk on LeBron James during the Olympics will remain a defining moment in his career and a testament to his ability to shine on the biggest stages. Whether he returns to the NBA or continues to dominate internationally, Guerschon Yabusele has firmly established himself as a player to watch, a force to be reckoned with, and a name that will be remembered in the annals of basketball history.