Following a standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, French forward Guerschon Yabusele is reportedly set to sign a one-year, $2.1 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Yabusele played a crucial role for France, emerging as the team’s second-leading scorer, averaging 14 points and 3.3 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 52% from the field.
Yabusele’s most notable performance came during the quarterfinals against Canada, a match where many favored the Canadian team. Elevated to the starting lineup after Rudy Gobert and Evan Fournier struggled in the group stage, Yabusele seized the opportunity, scoring 22 points to lead France to a surprise victory and into the semifinals. Alongside Isaia Cordinier, Yabusele became a key player for France, often leading the team in scoring through the remainder of the tournament.
Yabusele was under contract with EuroLeague powerhouse Real Madrid, where he had one year remaining on his $2.5 million deal. However, the opportunity to return to the NBA was too enticing to pass up, especially after his Olympic success. According to Marc Stein, there had been speculation that Yabusele might finish his contract with Real Madrid before considering a return to the NBA next summer. However, his standout performance on the international stage, including a 20-point showing against Team USA in the gold medal game, likely accelerated his decision.
After helping France secure a silver medal, Yabusele expressed his readiness for an NBA comeback by posting on X (formerly Twitter), “Been waiting for a 2nd chance… I’m ready.”
This upcoming season will mark Yabusele’s second stint in the NBA. He was originally drafted 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft. However, his first tenure in the league was short-lived, with Yabusele appearing in just 74 games over two seasons and averaging six minutes per game before being waived by the Celtics in 2019. Following his departure from the NBA, Yabusele took his talents overseas, playing in France and China before settling with Real Madrid, where he found success over the past three seasons.
Now, Yabusele returns to the NBA with more experience and a refined skill set. He’s developed into a versatile forward capable of using his strength to dominate inside while also stretching the floor with improved three-point shooting—a skill that was less developed during his initial NBA stint.
For the 76ers, signing Guerschon Yabusele on a minimum deal is a low-risk, high-reward move. If Yabusele can replicate his Olympic form, he could become a valuable contributor off the bench for a team with championship aspirations. And if things don’t pan out, Philadelphia can easily move on after the season. However, given his recent performance, there’s reason to believe that Yabusele is ready to make his mark in the NBA.
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