The Paris Olympics were a showcase for basketball’s elite, with stars like Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama stealing the spotlight. However, amidst the fierce competition, a 28-year-old French forward nearly stole the show. Guerschon Yabusele, who emerged as a key player for France during the knockout stages, could be on the verge of reigniting his NBA career following his impressive performances.
Inserted into the starting lineup in the latter stages of the tournament, Yabusele replaced Rudy Gobert and seized the opportunity with both hands. His energy and explosiveness on the court were hard to miss, and one particular highlight—a powerful dunk over LeBron James—caught the attention of fans and scouts alike. This standout moment has set the stage for what could be Yabusele’s long-awaited “second chance” in the NBA, and it appears that the Cleveland Cavaliers might be interested in bringing him on board, potentially influenced by head coach Kenny Atkinson.
Cleveland Cavaliers Eye Yabusele for Roster Spot: NBA Return Complicated by Buyout Clause
Evan Dammarell of Clutch Points has suggested that the Cavaliers could seek Atkinson’s input to fill the 14th spot on their roster. Atkinson, who recently took over as the Cavs’ head coach, was part of the French coaching staff during the Olympics and witnessed Yabusele’s development firsthand. According to Dammarell, the Cavaliers require a forward to complement Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, and Yabusele could be an ideal fit.
Throughout the Paris Olympics, Yabusele averaged 14 points per game across six contests. However, once he became a starter, his impact was even greater, averaging nearly 20 points per game, including a strong showing in the Finals against Team USA, where he was France’s second-leading scorer.
Yet, a potential return to the NBA for Yabusele comes with its challenges. Currently under contract with Real Madrid in the EuroLeague, Yabusele has established himself as a crucial player for the team, averaging 9.7 points per game last season. His contract includes a $2.5 million NBA buyout clause, which Madrid recently increased, anticipating his standout Olympic performances.
Here’s where it gets complicated: NBA teams can only contribute up to $850,000 toward an international player’s buyout. This means that for Yabusele to make his NBA comeback, he would need to forfeit a substantial sum—$1.65 million to be exact. Moreover, this financial sacrifice wouldn’t guarantee him an NBA contract; it would merely give him a shot at making a roster.
But that’s exactly what Yabusele is after—another chance. At 28, and coming off one of the best performances of his career, he might be willing to take the risk and make the leap back to the NBA. The Cleveland Cavaliers, a team once home to LeBron James, could offer him that opportunity, and Yabusele appears ready to take it.
