Guerschon Yabusele, a familiar name to basketball fans, is currently shining brightly on the global stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics. As a key player for Team France, Yabusele has propelled his squad into the gold medal game, demonstrating impressive form with a team-leading 17 points and seven rebounds in their semifinal victory over Germany. This standout performance has not only caught the attention of basketball enthusiasts worldwide but also sparked a notable request from Yabusele himself.
After France secured their spot in the gold medal match, Yabusele had a candid moment with Gary Washburn from The Boston Globe. With a playful grin, he expressed a desire for a reunion with his former NBA team, the Boston Celtics. "You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back," Yabusele said, reflecting his enthusiasm for a potential return to the NBA. This remark highlights his ongoing connection with the team that drafted him in 2016 and where he spent two seasons before moving on.
Yabusele, known affectionately as the "Dancing Bear" during his time with the Celtics, was picked 16th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft. His tenure with Boston saw him play 74 games over two seasons, averaging 2.3 points and 1.3 rebounds per game. Although his NBA career seemed to stall, Yabusele has since flourished internationally. Currently playing for Real Madrid, he has made significant strides, averaging 9.3 points and 3.0 rebounds per game last season, and contributing to multiple championships with the Spanish club.
His performance at the Olympics further cements his status as a formidable player. Averaging 12.8 points per game for France, Yabusele has been instrumental in their journey to the gold medal game, coming just behind the highly touted Victor Wembanyama in scoring. The forward’s prowess in the semifinal against Germany underscores his development and effectiveness on the court.
The potential for Yabusele's return to the Celtics is intriguing but remains uncertain. The team, which is currently the reigning NBA champion, has a robust roster, and Yabusele’s NBA stint was relatively brief. However, his recent performances suggest he might be a valuable asset should the Celtics consider a reunion. For now, Yabusele’s focus is on the upcoming gold medal game, where he’ll face off against the United States and current Celtics players like Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday.
In summary, while Yabusele’s plea for a Boston return might be a long shot, his impressive display at the Olympics and his recent success in Spain highlight his growth as a player. Celtics fans and basketball enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see how his story unfolds on both the Olympic stage and potentially back in the NBA.
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