Knicks’ recently signed backup center excited to play for a contender

Yabusele recently spoke to Eurobasket’s Arthur Puybertier about why he chose the Knicks in his free agency.

“When you look at New York, you can already see that the franchise has risen a lot in recent years,” Yabusele said. “They are conference finalists; the collective project is visible and very interesting for me. They are a very good team that plays very well together and is playing for the title! Having this goal was something important for me, I want to play for something.”

Yabusele will have a strong impact on the Knicks

Yabusele is a key signing for New York, as he will be able to provide their bench unit with a solid scorer in the frontcourt and bring some size and physicality. Last season, he averaged 11.0 points and shot 50% from the floor and 38% from three.

In addition, his versatility on the court gives the Knicks flexibility as to how they want to use him. He can be featured in lineups that are smaller and serve as a small-ball five, or be a part of a bigger lineup and play a hybrid forward type of role.

Regardless, Yabusele wanted to be in New York to have a chance at winning the title. The team has a realistic chance to make some serious noise next season, and Yabusele’s presence will play a big part in that.