The Philadelphia 76ers found a hidden gem with former first-round pick

Last summer, the Philadelphia 76ers took a chance on a former first round pick that has not played a game in the NBA in over five years. So far this move is paying huge dividends as they are getting much needed production amid team struggles, and injury problems among their biggest stars.

Guerschon Yabusele’s journey to the NBA has been anything but typical. Yabusele, 28, was selected 16th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. He officially made his NBA debut in 2017 following a developmental stint with the Shanghai Sharks of the CBA. In two seasons with the Celtics, Yabusele averaged 2.3 points per game to go along with 1.4 rebounds in limited action. He was released following the 2018-2019 season and has spent the last several seasons playing overseas for several organizations including Real Madrid.

Following a standout performance in the Olympics for Team France, the 76ers signed Yabusele to a one year, $2.1 million deal in August. He has impressed and has earned himself valuable minutes in Nick Nurse’s rotation amid absences to Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George.

In 10 games with Philly, Yabusele has turned in an impressive stat line for a reserve player, averaging 9.6 points per game to go along with 4.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists. He has been efficient from the field, shooting 49% overall  and 40% from three point range. Yabusele has even passed his career season high in points in just two weeks of action as he has 96 points in his first 10 games with the team.

The 76ers struck gold with Guerschon Yabusele

Beyond his impressive efficiency from the field, his basketball IQ has been a breath of fresh air for a 76ers roster with a lot of new faces. He has developed chemistry with stars including Paul George who praised his ability following Sunday’s win over the Charlotte Hornets. In that game, Yabusele put together his best performance of the young campaign, putting up 20 points along with 8 rebounds in 31 minutes of action.

The 76ers went into this season thin at power forward and the fact that they did not add another backup at this position shows that they have full confidence in Yabusele in the long run.

Yabusele’s work ethic and underdog story make him a natural fan favorite. He plays with tenacity and intensity on both ends of the floor and embraces his role without hesitation. His willingness to learn and adapt in Nurse’s system could lead to an even greater impact as the season progresses.

While fans will look at the signings of Paul George, Caleb Martin, and Andre Drummond as the highlights of the offseason for the Philadelphia 76ers (as far as new additions go), Guerschon Yabusele could very well be one of the biggest kept secrets and steals in all of the NBA if he can continue to play at a high level.