The Boston Celtics are riding high after clinching their 18th NBA title, surpassing the Los Angeles Lakers for the most championship wins in league history. With star players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the charge, the Celtics are eager to continue their dominance in the upcoming season.
Amid the excitement surrounding the Celtics, one of their former draft picks, forward Guerschon Yabusele, is eyeing a return to the NBA. The former Celtics star has expressed his desire for another opportunity to prove himself in the league.
“Been waiting for a 2nd chance… I’m ready,” Yabusele wrote on his X account.
Been waiting for a 2nd chance.. I’m ready 😤🧸
— Guerschon Yabusele (@yabusele28) August 11, 2024
Currently, Yabusele is under contract with Real Madrid, where he has one more season remaining. However, there is a buyout clause in his contract, which could pave the way for an NBA return.
While NBA teams are limited in how much they can contribute to an international player’s buyout, Yabusele’s eagerness to return might make him a valuable addition to a team looking for depth. If he’s willing to come at a modest cost, it’s possible that NBA teams will consider offering him a contract or inviting him to try out at training camp.
Guerschon Yabusele’s Career
Guerschon Yabusele, the 16th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, played for the team between 2017 and 2019. During his two-year stint in the NBA, Yabusele averaged just 2.3 points and 1.4 rebounds over 74 games, with an average of 7 minutes per game.
After his time in the NBA, Yabusele continued his professional basketball career with a brief stint in the Chinese Basketball League (CBL) and a year in France’s professional league. In 2021, he signed with Real Madrid, where he has been playing since.
Yabusele also represents the French national team in international competitions. He won a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and again showcased his talent at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Although France lost to the USA in the final, he delivered one of his best performances, scoring 20 points and grabbing two rebounds in 31 minutes of play.
Despite his initial struggles in the NBA, Yabusele’s performance with the French national team this season could encourage NBA teams to give him another chance.