Very few players can boast the honor of dunking on LeBron James, one of the most revered athletes in basketball history. With his exceptional basketball IQ and natural athleticism, James is rarely caught out of position on the court. However, there have been noteworthy exceptions that have etched their place in basketball lore.
Six years ago, in Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals, rookie Jayson Tatum delivered a memorable slam on James. That moment is often regarded as the most famous play of Tatum’s career, symbolizing a new generation of talent rising to the occasion.
Another Iconic Moment
This year’s Olympics added another chapter to this exclusive club. French forward Guerschon Yabusele created a sensation by dunking on LeBron James during the gold medal game between France and Team USA. The highlight occurred in the second quarter, with Yabusele skillfully maneuvering 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, a play that electrified fans and analysts alike. The Frenchman has since emerged as one of the breakout stars of the tournament, showcasing a relentless motor and formidable strength inside the paint.
Tactical Decisions and Performance
France's tactical decision to play smaller and limit Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages provided Yabusele the opportunity to shine. His performance was characterized by dynamic play inside and sharpshooting from the perimeter, keeping opposing defenses constantly on alert.
Yabusele was initially drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft. Despite high expectations, his NBA career did not unfold as hoped, leading him to pursue his professional journey abroad. Since 2019, he has been playing for Real Madrid, where he has further honed his skills.
Yabusele’s recent performances have reignited discussions about his potential return to the NBA. Following his standout Olympic performance, he candidly expressed his aspirations, “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back,” he told The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn.
A Bright Future
Yabusele's play not only gave France a significant advantage in the tournament but also served as a potent reminder of his capability to compete at the highest level. His dunk on LeBron James has cemented his place in the annals of basketball history, exemplifying his power and skill.
With a versatile set of skills, Yabusele remains a player to watch. His relentless drive and refined technique suggest that he has the potential to make a significant impact whether he returns to the NBA or continues to dominate on the international stage. For now, his most recent achievements signal a promising trajectory and a chapter yet to be fully written in the story of Guerschon Yabusele's basketball career.