Very few players know the honor of dunking on LeBron James, one of the most revered athletes in the history of basketball. Known for his remarkable basketball IQ and natural athleticism, James is rarely out of position, making such feats even more rare and remarkable. One momentous instance took place six years ago, in Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference finals, when a rookie named Jayson Tatum threw down a slam on the legendary LeBron James. That moment has arguably become the most famous play of Tatum’s career.
This year's Olympics, however, offered a fresh highlight that singularly stood out not only for its sheer athleticism but also for its context and significance. French forward Guerschon Yabusele, during the gold medal game between France and Team USA, managed to dunk on LeBron James himself. The play took place in the second quarter when Yabusele maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter. As LeBron rotated to position himself for a charge, the Frenchman soared above him and finished with a powerful dunk, even drawing a foul in the process.
Yabusele Emerges as a Star
Guerschon Yabusele emerged as one of the breakout stars of the tournament. His dunk on LeBron James was more than just an isolated moment of brilliance; it was emblematic of his relentless motor and physical strength. France's tactical decision to play smaller and limit Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages allowed Yabusele to shine, turning him into a force inside. His shooting ability further kept opposing defenses on their toes, making him a versatile threat on the court.
From NBA Prospect to International Standout
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 hoped. Since 2019, he has been playing professionally abroad and is currently a member of Real Madrid. His recent performance at the Olympics, however, has reignited discussions about his potential in the NBA. Yabusele has expressed interest in returning to the NBA if the opportunity arises. "You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back," he told The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn.
A Bright Future Ahead
Yabusele’s recent performance has given France a significant advantage in the international basketball scene. His ability to compete at the highest level has been strongly indicated through his plays, most notably his dunk on LeBron James. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Yabusele has cemented his place in the annals of basketball history with that iconic dunk.
While the future remains uncertain for Yabusele's return to the NBA, one thing is clear: his unwavering determination and impressive skill set have solidified his reputation as a formidable player. For now, fans and analysts alike can only marvel at the recent achievements of a player who has proven that he can indeed rise to any occasion—even when it involves one of the greatest players of all time.