Yabusele: Panathinaikos can beat many NBA teams

Panathinaikos star Guerschon Yabusele, in a wide-ranging interview with L'Equipe, reviewed his decision to return to EuroLeague, the chemistry in the locker room and the club's talented squad. The 30-year-old French national team forward argued that when the team fully gels, the Greens can compete with and beat many NBA teams.

Yabusele pointed out that there are many French players at the club and said he finds the squad very talented. Describing his excitement on the day the summer transfers were announced, the player said he saw the starting five compared with the starting fives of NBA teams. He added that he does not claim they would win against the champion, but he believes they could win a few games against any team.

Adapting to his new life in Athens, Yabusele said his close friend Mathias Lessort has supported him, and that they spent time together over the summer. He said Lessort showed him around the arena and the facilities, that the two families know each other, and that he is happy to be on the same team.

Referring to his departure from the NBA, Yabusele said he had a good stretch with Chicago toward the end of last season, but did not play at the start of the season. He explained that the contract offer from Minnesota was only partially guaranteed and carried the possibility of being traded. The player, who prioritizes his family's stability, said the three-year contract he signed with Panathinaikos offers the best conditions for his family. He added that the chance to play alongside Mathias, Mous and Sylvain also played a role in his decision. Pointing to the club's big goals, the fans' support and the Olympiacos derby, the player stressed that the team has no limits.