Panathinaikos AKTOR signs French forward Guerschon Yabusele to three-year, near-€12 million contract
French forward Guerschon Yabusele leaves the NBA after two seasons to sign a three-year contract with Panathinaikos AKTOR worth close to €12 million, reuniting with national team teammates Mathias Lessort and Moustapha Fall.
The signing
Panathinaikos AKTOR officially announced the acquisition of French forward/center Guerschon Yabusele on a three-year deal. The 30-year-old leaves the NBA after two seasons, having played for the Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, and Chicago Bulls. He became a free agent after his stint with the Bulls, which began in February 2026 via a trade from the Knicks.
Financial terms
Multiple Greek outlets report the contract's total value at close to €12 million, translating to annual earnings of roughly €4 million. HoopsHype journalist Michael Scotto, who first reported the agreement, noted that Yabusele is expected to become one of the three highest-paid players in Europe.
French connection
Yabusele will reunite with two familiar faces from the French national team: center Mathias Lessort and center Moustapha Fall, both already on Panathinaikos's roster. The trio is set to form an all-French front line. Shortly after the official announcement, Yabusele posted social media stories featuring himself with Lessort and Fall.
How the news broke
The signing unfolded through a series of reports and confirmations on 8 July 2026.
- HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reports Panathinaikos has reached an agreement with Yabusele.
- Greek outlet in.gr confirms the agreement, adding that Yabusele will be among Europe's three highest-paid players.
- NewsIT reveals contract details: three years, total near €12 million, annual salary about €4 million.
- Panathinaikos officially announces the signing; Yabusele posts social media stories with Lessort and Fall.
Roster impact
The move fills the center position with a player who brings NBA experience and fits the profile Panathinaikos sought. The club strengthens its frontcourt options ahead of the new season, signaling high ambitions in both domestic and EuroLeague competition.
