Guerschon Yabusele Heads to Panathinaikos After NBA Stint

Yabusele Signs Three‑Year Deal with Greek Powerhouse

Guerschon Yabusele has officially left the NBA and signed a three‑year contract with Panathinaikos of the Greek league, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. The move closes a brief but eventful chapter for the 6‑foot‑9 forward, who spent parts of the last two seasons bouncing between Philadelphia, New York and Chicago. The deal returns Yabusele to the European scene where he first found substantial success. Panathinaikos, a club with a rich history and strong fan base, added a player who can fill a front‑court role with both size and shooting touch.

From Celtics Draft Pick to European Return

Yabusele was selected 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft, but his early years in the league never materialized into the expected impact. Frustrated by limited minutes, he opted to play overseas to rediscover his rhythm. The turning point arrived during the 2024 Olympics, where the French national team showcased his improved skill set and confidence. That Summer Olympics performance rekindled interest from NBA franchises, leading to a brief return to the states. After several stints, Yabusele now returns to Europe with renewed purpose.

NBA Journey: 76ers, Knicks, and Bulls

His NBA comeback began with the Philadelphia 76ers after a free‑agent deal, but the fit proved uneasy. The New York Knicks signed him the following season, only to trade him mid‑year to the Chicago Bulls. In Chicago, Yabusele averaged 10 points per game across 26 appearances, showing he still possesses the ability to contribute at the next level. The 2024‑25 campaign did not go as planned, prompting the decision to pursue a fresh start abroad. The three‑year contract with Panathinaikos offers a clear path to regain form and re‑establish himself among elite Euroleague players.

What This Move Means for Yabusele and Panathinaikos

For Yabusele, the return to Greece aligns with a broader trend of NBA veterans seeking stability and a chance to refine their game in a familiar basketball culture. Panathinaikos gains a versatile scorer who can stretch the floor and protect the rim, adding depth to a roster that competes for domestic and Euroleague titles. The club’s coaching staff and front office see Yabusele as a player who can integrate quickly given his European experience and language skills. If he can replicate the form shown with France at the Olympics, the Greek powerhouse could see a significant boost in its quest for silverware.