Very few players know the honor of dunking on LeBron James, one of the most revered athletes in the history of basketball. James, with his remarkable basketball IQ and natural athleticism, is rarely out of position, making such moments unforgettable.
Jayson Tatum's Memorable Dunk
Six years ago, in Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference finals, a rookie named Jayson Tatum created one of those unforgettable moments. With a fearless approach, Tatum threw down a slam on LeBron James, cementing that play as arguably the most famous of his burgeoning career.
Yabusele's Highlight at the Olympics
This year's Olympics brought French forward Guerschon Yabusele into the spotlight for a similar feat. During the gold medal game between France and Team USA, Yabusele delivered his own crowning moment. In the second quarter, he maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter. With LeBron rotating to position himself for a charge, the Frenchman finished with a powerful dunk and even drew the foul. This athletic play showcased Yabusele's relentless motor and strength, further elevating his status as one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
France's Tactical Brilliance
Yabusele's explosive performance didn't happen in a vacuum. France's tactical decision to play smaller and limit Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages allowed Yabusele to shine. His versatility on the court, characterized by his force inside and his shooting ability, kept opposing defenses continuously guessing.
From NBA Draft to International Stardom
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. Despite the highs and lows of his career, Yabusele has hinted at a potential return to the NBA, telling The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back.”
A Significant Advantage for France
Yabusele's recent performances have not only highlighted his potential but have also given France a significant advantage in international competition. His efforts on the court have served as a strong indicator of his ability to compete at the highest level, proving him to be a formidable force in basketball today.
Legacy Moment
Dunking on LeBron James is an achievement that many players dream of but only a few have accomplished. Yabusele’s commanding performance at the Olympics, punctuated by that memorable dunk, has cemented his place in the annals of basketball history.