Few Have Done It: The Rarity of Dunking on LeBron James
Dunking on LeBron James—a feat as exhilarating as it is elusive. Few players have had the honor of going head-to-head with one of the greatest athletes ever to grace the basketball court and coming out on top in such dramatic fashion. With an impeccable blend of basketball IQ and innate athletic prowess, James is rarely caught out of position. Yet, those who have managed to conquer this challenge are etched into basketball lore.
One such moment occurred six years ago during Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals. A young rookie, Jayson Tatum, took to the air and delivered a soaring slam over the towering figure of James. It was a moment that immediately ascended into the annals of NBA history, permanently marking a high point in Tatum’s budding career.
Fast forward to this year, and the scene appeared similar but had a slightly different setting: the global stage of the Olympics. French forward Guerschon Yabusele followed in Tatum’s footsteps, making headlines with a powerfully emphatic dunk over LeBron James during the gold medal game between France and Team USA.
France's Tactical Brilliance
The play itself was a masterclass in opportunistic execution. In the second quarter, Yabusele maneuvered past American guard Devin Booker on the perimeter. Sensing danger, LeBron rotated swiftly into position, hoping to draw a charge. But Yabusele, exhibiting extraordinary strength and athleticism, finished the drive with a powerful dunk, drawing a foul in the process.
What made this moment particularly impactful was the context around it. France had made a strategic decision to play smaller during the knockout stages of the tournament, which significantly limited the minutes of star center Rudy Gobert. This tactical shift allowed Yabusele to shine, showcasing his relentless motor and unparalleled strength, turning him into an offensive force inside.
Yabusele’s Rise to Global Prominence
Yabusele has rapidly emerged as one of the breakout stars of this year’s Olympic tournament. His performance in the gold medal game solidified his place on the global basketball stage, underlined by his versatility and skillset. His shooting ability kept opposing defenses constantly on edge, making him a multi-dimensional threat.
Drafted 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, Yabusele’s initial NBA career didn't quite take off as anticipated. Since 2019, he has been playing professionally abroad and is currently a valued member of Real Madrid’s squad. However, his recent heroics have reignited interest, including his own desire to return to the NBA.
In an interview with The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, Yabusele expressed his aspirations, saying, “You gotta tell (the Celtics) to bring me back.” His commanding performance and unforgettable dunk over one of the greatest players of all time have undoubtedly bolstered his case for a second stint in the NBA.
Legacy Defined in Moments
Moments like Yabusele’s dunk can often serve as defining instances in an athlete’s career, elevating their status and solidifying their legacy. The power, determination, and finesse exhibited by Yabusele in that sequence spoke volumes about his potential to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
France’s decision to optimize their roster by playing smaller and giving Yabusele more room to operate proved a masterstroke. His relentless effort and deft skill have propelled the French team forward, giving them a significant edge in international competition.
While Yabusele’s NBA career may have had its bumps, his journey continues to unfold in compelling ways. His readiness to seize new opportunities and leverage his talent on the world stage suggests a promising chapter lies ahead, whether it’s a return to the NBA or continued success internationally.
In dunking over LeBron James and making such a significant impact for France, Guerschon Yabusele has not just cemented his place in basketball history but has reignited interest in what he might achieve next. Moments like these are rare, and they carry an indelible meaning—marking the careers and legacies of those who rise to meet them.