Guerschon Yabusele explained his decision to join the Knicks, citing their gritty identity and team chemistry. After a standout season with the 76ers, the former first-round pick now aims to strengthen New York’s bench in a pivotal year for the franchise.
The New York Knicks’ offseason makeover continues with the addition of Guerschon Yabusele, who is coming off a breakout season with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Points this season
Denver Nuggets
NBA
After several years away from the NBA, the French forward’s return has been nothing short of remarkable—and now he’s ready to make an impact in New York.
In an interview with SKWEEK, Yabusele opened up about his motivations for signing with the Knicks, citing both cultural and competitive alignment with the team.
“I think the Knicks was a great decision,” said the 29-year-old. “I feel like their team really matched my DNA. To fight, to play hard, to be kind of like the underdogs who go and fight every night.”
Yabusele noted that he was impressed by New York’s team chemistry during matchups last season:
“It’s a couple of teams that we played against, and I was looking at them like ‘Oh my god, this team plays good together.’ They’re a good team. I can tell it’s a good group of guys.”
Drafted 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in 2016, Yabusele’s NBA career started slowly. He played two seasons in Boston (2017–2019), appearing in just 74 games, most of which came in garbage time.
After that, he took his talents overseas, developing into a more polished, all-around forward during five seasons in Europe, including standout play with Real Madrid. But it was his dominant showing at the 2024 Paris Olympics with the French national team that reignited NBA interest.
He signed with the 76ers shortly after and made the most of his second chance.
In 2024–25, Yabusele played 70 games, starting in 43, and averaged 11.0 points and 5.6 rebounds per game—both career highs. His improved outside shooting and defensive versatility made him a reliable rotation piece in Philadelphia, helping shore up their second unit.
Now, he’ll be expected to do the same for a Knicks team aiming to improve its depth, especially after a playoff run that revealed some cracks behind the starting five.
For Yabusele, the opportunity is more than just a return—it’s a rebirth.
“I can’t wait to start,” he said. “It’s the right place at the right time.”
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