Chicago Bulls lose veteran big man Guerschon Yabusele as he signs a three‑year EuroLeague deal with Panathinaikos, ending his NBA run after two seasons of 8.3 points per game. The move follows a market that dried up quickly, pushing the 30‑year‑old to head back to Europe.
What happened?
Yabusele, who split the 2025‑26 season between the Chicago Bulls and New York Knicks, announced on social media that he will forgo the 2026‑27 NBA season. HoopsHype’s Mike Scotto reported the French forward agreed to a three‑year contract that makes him one of the top three highest‑paid players in the EuroLeague. He will join Greece’s Panathinaikos, a club that expects him to anchor the paint and stretch the floor.
Why it matters for Chicago Bulls
The Bulls lost a versatile forward who could finish at the rim, knock down mid‑range jumpers, and protect the rim with blocks. Yabusele’s 8.3 PPG over his two‑year NBA stint came with 4.2 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game, providing depth for a team that struggled defensively. His departure leaves a void in the frontcourt, forcing Chicago to rely more on Zach Lavine’s scoring and the development of rookie bigs.
How the Bulls have been performing
The Bulls fell 149‑128 to the Dallas Mavericks on April 13, 2026, extending a recent form of 1W‑0D‑4L (most recent first). That loss marked the fourth straight defeat, highlighting the need for roster stability. Without Yabusele, the Bulls must address rebounding and interior scoring before the next season begins.
What comes next?
Yabusele’s contract reportedly includes NBA opt‑out clauses, so a return isn’t impossible if a team offers a roster spot. For Chicago, the front office may explore trade options for a younger prospect or sign a free‑agent to fill the gap. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos expects the Frenchman to boost their EuroLeague campaign, where his experience against NBA talent could prove valuable.
And the Bulls’ coaching staff, led by Billy Donovan, will need to adjust rotations quickly. The team’s next training camp will reveal whether they can replace Yabusele’s minutes with internal growth or external acquisition. The upcoming draft and free‑agency period will be crucial for Chicago’s rebuild.
Fan reaction
Fans took to Twitter, expressing disappointment but also optimism about Yabusele’s chance to become a EuroLeague star. One supporter wrote, “We’ll miss his hustle, but hope he shines in Greece and maybe comes back stronger.” The sentiment reflects a broader desire for the Bulls to return to playoff contention.
The NBA landscape continues to shift, and Chicago’s next moves will determine if they can bounce back from a 1W‑0D‑4L stretch and re‑establish themselves as a competitive force.