76ers News: Guerschon Yabusele’s Financial Sacrifice for NBA Return & Possible Penalty Risks for Philadelphia Explained

After being drafted by the Boston Celtics as the 16th overall pick in the first round of the 2016 draft, Guerschon Yabusele played in the NBA for three years until 2019. He then took his talents to China, playing for several teams before joining Real Madrid in the Liga ACB and the EuroLeague. Now, it looks like the NBA is calling him back.

According to ESPN, free agent forward Guerschon Yabusele just inked a one-year, $2.1 million minimum deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. However, Yabusele had to make some financial sacrifices to make the move happen. In addition to signing a minimum deal, he had to handle a $2.5 million buyout with Real Madrid, of which only $850,000 was covered by the 76ers, per league rules. Yabusele and Real Madrid had to cover the rest.

Even though the 76ers risk a potential penalty of $18.3 million with Yabusele’s addition, as their salary cap is now $181.7 million—exceeding the tax threshold of $170.8 million—they’re making a calculated move.

Yabusele, who fills a need for a power forward behind Caleb Martin, brings added defense to the team. Additionally, he’s proven his scoring ability, as evidenced by his performance in the Olympics.

Yabusele’s breakout run in the Olympics 2024

Heading into the 2024 Olympics, not many were familiar with the name Guerschon Yabusele, but by the end of the tournament, his name was commonplace. With over 14 points per game, Yabusele was a beast for France. Remember that game he had against Germany? He scored nine straight points in the third quarter to help France snag a 73-69 win. He finished with over 15 points and 7 rebounds. But that’s not all.

In the finals against Team USA, he proved he wasn’t backing down. He had no issues getting physical with the squad and had some jaw-dropping moments during the game. We all saw that monster dunk by the French forward over LeBron James in the 2024 Olympics final. Plus, he averaged 20 points in that game.

Following his performance in the Olympics, one of his teammates had nothing but great things to say. “Guersch is a dominant force inside. He can really shoot outside and inside. These last two games he has been the heart of our team to be honest,” France veteran Evan Fournier said about Yabusele. ” He’s dominant. He’s short for his position but he’s so thick you can’t move him. I’m proud of him.”

His Olympic performance has opened up a new NBA opportunity for him. The forward, with his mix of shooting and physicality, looks like a great fit for the already stacked 76ers. With Yabusele joining, will the 76ers be able to pull it off this time, and will Yabusele’s financial sacrifice be worth it?

What do you think? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.