A new chapter with the Knicks
Guerschon Yabusele’s story stretches far beyond his powerful dunks and his fresh start with the New York Knicks. It is the story of a child of the African diaspora raised in France, a young man shaped by resilience, family values, and a deep attachment to his roots.
Born in Dreux (France) to parents originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Yabusele embodies strength drawn from two cultures that complete one another. During his new chapter in the NBA, he carries that dual identity proudly with him.
The Power of His Roots
When asked what his African heritage represents, he speaks with sincerity:
“A lot of things. First, the values I received from my parents”: everything they passed on to me, to my brothers and sisters. They brought that from home, the culture as well. That’s what completes me, what makes me who I am today. I try to carry that with me every day.”
His identity carries a history, both difficult and inspiring:
“I come from a country that has suffered a lot. I grew up in a very different situation, so despite everything that happens, I try to stay positive and keep smiling. It helps me move forward every day in life.”
Boxing Lessons: Discipline and Footwork
Before basketball, Yabusele was a boxer — just like his father. The mentality instilled in him was clear:
“The fighting spirit, already, for sure.”
He remembers intense weekends through childhood:
“Since my childhood, he taught us his values — to work hard in difficult moments. I have a lot of memories from when I was young, on weekends, when he would wake us up in the morning to go run, to go train. We didn’t always want to, but that’s when he showed us that it’s not always easy — even when you don’t feel like it, you have to work. And today it helps me a lot, and I’m happy I listened to his advice.”
Boxing didn’t just sharpen his mind: it gave him physical tools he still uses today:
“With boxing training, we move our feet a lot. Today, that helps me a lot in basketball. The quickness in my feet is something people often compliment me on. I know all of that has helped me a lot. Even in my physical condition, it helps me a lot too.”
Finding His Place in New York
Adapting to the Knicks, Yabusele simply focuses on what he can control:
“I try to find my role the best I can. I try to help the team — whether it’s two, three minutes, ten minutes — I try to give everything every time I go on the court. I try to be ready, to bring all my energy and that positive side on the floor.”
New York comes with bright lights and pressure, but he embraces it with gratitude:
“Everyone knows what New York represents. It’s one of the biggest cities in the world. There are a lot of celebrities here, a lot of attention on basketball, on sports in general. People say it’s the most difficult city, but for me, it’s only a bonus.”
“I told myself I would enjoy it as much as I can”
Returning to the NBA after five years away carries deep meaning for him:
“It’s incredible. That’s why I told myself when I came back — because it was still five years that I spent away from the NBA — that I would enjoy it as much as I can. I will try to learn as much as I can. I’ll try to stay as long as I can. I will fight every day on the court to prove that I can stay in this league.”
Every game is a reminder:
“I motivate myself every day to go out there and give everything I can.”
A Message to Those Who Believe in Him
To fans cheering for him in France, Africa, and beyond, Yabusele’s gratitude is clear:
“Thank you for the support. It really makes me happy. I receive a lot of positive messages from people who follow me, who try to get inspired by my journey. That gives me strength to continue. I try to enjoy it as much as I can, and I hope everyone appreciates what I do. And I will try to do better every day.”
A New Mission in New York
New York is a city that celebrates fighters.
Madison Square Garden rewards energy, passion, and intensity, three things Yabusele has lived since childhood.
His arrival feels like a natural fit for a franchise and a fan base built on grit. He brings the strength of Congo and the determination of France into every possession.
He is ready for the challenge ahead and he knows exactly who he represents each time he puts on the Knicks jersey.
