Yabusele: 'Obradovic is one of the best coaches in EuroLeague' – Lessons for Vietnamese basketball

In European basketball, Guerschon Yabusele's recent statements about head coach Zeljko Obradovic go beyond mere praise. They acknowledge the influence of a coaching philosophy that has shaped history. Yabusele, currently playing for Panathinaikos, spoke highly of his mentor: 'He is, if not the best coach in the EuroLeague, certainly one of the best. He has his own mindset, a different way of thinking, vast experience, and numerous championships. Returning to the EuroLeague and working under such a coach is truly special, and I appreciate that. So I just try to respect him and learn from him.' These words reflect a coaching culture that Vietnamese basketball desperately needs. In the VBA, foreign coaches often bring new methods, but the bond between players and coaches – the essence of team strength – sometimes remains a gap. Yabusele also mentioned former teammates Matthias Lessort, Moustapha Fall, and Sylvain Francisco, calling them 'brothers.' He added about the rivalry between teams: 'I understand what's going on between the two teams. Everyone tells me: No matter what happens during the season, you can't lose to them!' This echoes the fierce derbies in the VBA, where fighting spirit and loyalty to the jersey are paramount. When asked which NBA player he would bring to Panathinaikos, Yabusele didn't hesitate: 'Kevin Durant – he's a legend, a killer on the court. Who wouldn't want KD on their team?' he laughed. The lesson for Vietnamese basketball: To grow, we need visionary coaches like Obradovic, players who honor teammates like Yabusele, and the ambition to reach for the world's top stars. That is not just a dream, but a strategic direction. A strong basketball foundation starts with respect in the locker room and ends with victories on the court. Deeper analysis: Obradovic is known for the philosophy 'no player is bigger than the team.' He has trained generations of excellent players, from NBA returnees to young talents. Yabusele, a former Boston Celtic, is a testament to adaptability and growth under Obradovic. In Vietnam, domestic coaches like Le Van Son (national team) and foreign experts in the VBA are gradually building similar foundations. However, stability and long-term vision remain challenges. The story of Lessort, Fall, and Francisco also highlights the importance of camaraderie. In basketball, a cohesive team can overcome individual limitations. The VBA has seen impressive performances from imports like Jermaine Marrow or Anthony January, but integration with Vietnamese players remains a puzzle. Yabusele called them 'kardeşlerim' (Turkish for 'my brothers') – a small but meaningful detail about multiculturalism in sports. Finally, choosing Kevin Durant reflects the ambition of a top-tier team. Durant is not just a superstar but a symbol of resilience and all-around skill. Can Vietnamese basketball dream of one day hosting NBA stars? It may be far-fetched, but that dream will drive investment, youth development, and league quality. Conclusion: Look at Panathinaikos, at Yabusele and Obradovic, to understand that success comes not from luck but from respect, learning, and relentless desire. That is the message Vietnamese basketball must remember.