Season with Chicago
Yabusele joined the Bulls for a 26-game stretch, contributing as a versatile forward off the bench. He logged 24.7 minutes per outing, shooting 40.5 percent from the field and 38.3 percent from three-point range on 4.9 attempts per game. Over those games, he averaged 10.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per contest. While his numbers reflected solid 3-and-D-oriented potential and size, Chicago ultimately decided to move in a different direction for the roster this season.
Contractual move and overseas decision
Following the 2025-2026 season, Yabusele indicated a desire to continue competing at a high level and pursue opportunities beyond the NBA. The Bulls did not extend a contract offer they believed would compete with the terms presented to Yabusele by another league, and he subsequently agreed to a three-year deal with Panathinaikos, a prominent club in Europe. The new contract positions him among the higher-paid European players, underscoring his value and experience acquired during his NBA tenure.
Career overview
Yabusele’s professional journey began in 2017 when he entered the NBA as a first-round pick (16th overall) for the Boston Celtics. His rookie season saw him appear in 33 games, averaging 2.4 points and 1.6 rebounds. In his sophomore season, he played in 41 games with averages of 2.3 points and 1.3 rebounds. After two seasons with Boston, he was waived and began a diverse career overseas and in other leagues.
Following his NBA stint, Yabusele pursued opportunities internationally, including a notable run for France at the 2024 Olympics, which helped him showcase his talents on a global stage. His performance contributed to a buyout that led him to Real Madrid before joining the Philadelphia 76ers for a season. In that stint, he averaged 11.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists over 70 games, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable forward who can contribute across multiple facets of the game.
The subsequent move to the New York Knicks on a two-year deal followed, but a mutual decision to part ways led to Yabusele being moved to the Bulls. As part of this transition, he relinquished the second year of his contract, which facilitated his free agency status entering 2026. Now, at age 30, Yabusele has embarked on a new chapter overseas, further expanding his professional footprint and potentially influencing European competition with Panathinaikos.
What this means for the Bulls and for Yabusele
For the Bulls, the decision to part ways with a veteran who provided length and scoring versatility signals a shift in roster construction. The team may be prioritizing a different mix of wings and forwards to fit their long-term strategy and salary structure. As for Yabusele, moving to Panathinaikos presents an opportunity to showcase his game in a highly competitive European environment, with a chance to help Panathinaikos compete for domestic and continental honors.
In perspective, Yabusele’s NBA journey included stints with several teams, highlighting his adaptability and willingness to contribute in varied roles. His international experience, particularly with the French national program, has underscored his capacity to perform under pressure on diverse stages. The three-year contract with Panathinaikos signals a new chapter in a career defined by exploration across leagues and countries, with potential for continued growth and leadership on the court.
Conclusion
The departure of Guerschon Yabusele from the Chicago Bulls marks the end of a brief chapter in the NBA for the veteran forward. His subsequent move to Panathinaikos places him in a strong position to impact European basketball while continuing to demonstrate the versatility that has defined his professional path. Fans and analysts will be watching his progress with interest as he adapts to a new league, new teammates, and a different basketball culture, bringing his NBA experiences to one of Europe’s storied clubs.
