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. However, a select few have managed to pull off this feat, etching their names into the annals of basketball history.
A Rookie Stands Up
Six years ago, during Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference finals, a rookie named Jayson Tatum did the unthinkable. In a moment that remains arguably the most famous play of Tatum’s career, he threw down a slam on LeBron James. It was a coming-of-age moment for Tatum, solidifying his status as a rising star in the league.
A New Challenger Emerges
This year's Olympics added another name to the list of those who have dunked on James. French forward Guerschon Yabusele made headlines when he achieved the feat during the gold medal game between France and Team USA. Yabusele's highlight came in the second quarter when he maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter, with James rotating to position himself for a charge. Displaying a combination of power and finesse, Yabusele finished with a powerful dunk and drew the foul.
That play was not just a flash in the pan; it was a reflection of Yabusele’s emergence as one of the breakout stars of the tournament. France’s tactical decision to play smaller and limit Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages opened the door for Yabusele to shine. With a relentless motor and impressive strength, he became a force inside, while his shooting ability kept opposing defenses on their toes.
A Journey of Resilience
Yabusele’s journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. Drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, his initial NBA career didn’t pan out as hoped. By 2019, he found himself playing professionally abroad and is currently a member of Real Madrid.
Despite the setbacks, Yabusele has not given up on his NBA dreams. He has expressed interest in returning to the league if the opportunity arises, telling The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, "You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back." His standout performance during the Olympics has certainly given NBA scouts something to think about.
Seizing the Moment
Yabusele’s recent form has provided France with a significant advantage, showcasing his potential to compete at the highest level. Drawing on his diverse skill set and boundless energy, he has cemented his place in basketball history with his memorable dunk on LeBron James.
While his professional journey has had its ups and downs, Yabusele's performance in the Olympics serves as a strong indicator of his potential and resilience. As he continues to develop his game, the possibility of a return to the NBA becomes increasingly plausible. For now, basketball fans can only watch and wonder what the future holds for this dynamic player.