The New York Knicks have emerged from their most successful season in 25 years, advancing all the way to the Conference Finals. Key to this achievement were standout performances from Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, who delivered consistently high scoring. The team further strengthened its lineup by adding a seasoned center, who recently opened up about the challenges of returning to the NBA following his tenure in the EuroLeague.
“I mean, it was really hard, to be honest. It was long five like it was five long years, you know? Like every year, every summer, my agent was calling me, was like, ‘oh, you might have a chance.’ So a couple of teams called in, you try to see what’s your situation with the contract. So I was pretty hyped going into every summer, you know?,” Guerschon Yabusele said, via The Roommates podcast.
Although Yabusele entered the NBA at 22 with the Boston Celtics, he could not establish himself as a key player. Seeking growth, he decided to play with some teams worldwide over five years, with his latest stint being at Real Madrid, where he developed into a solid performer. However, in the 2024-25 season, he successfully returned to the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 11 points over 70 games.
The New York Knicks identified Yabusele as an ideal addition to bolster their rotation, even though he has not reached the league’s elite player status. His acquisition comes during a period of transition for the team following Tom Thibodeau’s departure as head coach. With Yabusele’s arrival, the Knicks could gain the much-needed depth on their bench, which will be crucial if they aim for another deep playoff run.
Guerschon Yabusele #28 of the Philadelphia 76ers celebrates a three-pointer against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Guerschon Yabusele opens up about joining the New York Knicks for the 2025-26 NBA season
The New York Knicks made headlines last season thanks to Tom Thibodeau’s leadership, guiding the team to its most successful run in 25 years. In a surprising move, the organization parted ways with Thibodeau, leading many potential coaching candidates to reportedly decline offers to join the team. Despite this uncertainty and the overshadowing of what was a remarkable season, Guerschon Yabusele expressed his motivation and enthusiasm for joining the franchise.
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“First of all, you can tell that they (Knicks players) have a special bonding between each other. When they go on the court together, it’s like they try to kill the other team. They made it so far in the playoffs, but year after year, you can see their progress. For me, it was just natural to want to be part of this. It’s one of the toughest crowds; people know it,” Yabusele said, via BasketNews.
Knicks’ roster has evolved into one of the most cohesive units in the league, with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns spearheading the offensive attack. Adding Guerschon Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson provides a significant boost to the depth of the bench, a factor that posed challenges last season. By retaining the core of their lineup, the team aims to make a serious push for the championship once again.
