Very few players in the world of basketball can claim the honor of having dunked on LeBron James. Known for his superior basketball IQ and immense athleticism, James is rarely caught out of position. However, two individuals have famously achieved this feat in recent years, creating unforgettable memories in basketball history.
A Momentous Dunk by Jayson Tatum
Six years ago, during Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals, a then-rookie named Jayson Tatum shocked the world by throwing down a powerful slam on LeBron James. That moment is still arguably the most celebrated play of Tatum’s career, and it stands as a testament to how far the young player has come since his rookie season.
Yabusele's Dazzling Display at the Olympics
This year, French forward Guerschon Yabusele carved his name into basketball lore by dunking on LeBron James during the gold medal game between France and Team USA at the Olympics. In the second quarter, Yabusele skillfully maneuvered past Devin Booker on the perimeter, only to be met by James, who rotated into position to draw a charge. The Frenchman didn’t hesitate; he finished with a thunderous dunk and drew a foul in the process.
Yabusele’s performance during the Olympics has been nothing short of sensational. His relentless energy and strength have made him a formidable presence on the court, while his shooting ability has kept opposing defenses in constant vigilance. France's decision to play smaller, limiting Rudy Gobert's minutes during the knockout stages, allowed Yabusele to shine even more brightly. Emerging as one of the breakout stars of the tournament, Yabusele has given France a significant edge with his versatile performances.
Career Journey and NBA Aspirations
Drafted as the No. 16 pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, Yabusele’s initial NBA career did not unfold as he had hoped. Since 2019, he has been plying his trade professionally abroad, currently playing for Real Madrid. Despite the challenges and the shifts in his career path, Yabusele has never lost sight of his potential and aspirations.
Reflecting on his ambitions to return to the NBA, Yabusele made it clear in a conversation with The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, saying, “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back.” With his recent stellar performances, particularly his unforgettable dunk on James, Yabusele has reaffirmed his capability to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Cementing His Legacy
For Yabusele, his Olympic performance has not only elevated his status but has also served as a strong indicator of his immense potential. The Frenchman’s dunk over LeBron James will be remembered as one of the defining moments of his career, a highlight that has cemented his place in the annals of basketball history.
As Yabusele continues to build on his impressive performances, the basketball world watches closely, anticipating the next chapter of his journey. Whether his path leads him back to the NBA or he continues to dominate internationally, one thing is certain: Guerschon Yabusele is a name that will be revered in basketball circles for years to come.