Abodunrin Gabriel Olaseni, popularly known as Gabe, has emerged as a prominent figure in the BKT EuroCup, showcasing remarkable talent and skill. The ongoing debate surrounding the significance of the performance index rating stat (PIR) within the realm of sports may persist, however, when observing Olaseni’s on-court prowess, the statistics undeniably speak for themselves.
The London Lions have been asserting their presence on the European stage, with the addition of former NBA player Sam Dekker bringing star quality to the team. Accompanied by the seasoned expertise of players like Jordan Taylor, the Lions have prioritized the establishment of a strong core of British players this season, fostering a deeper connection with their fan base, a commitment that Olaseni embodies inherently.
Born in 1991 in Walthamstow, a suburban district within the London Borough of Waltham Forest, Olaseni’s exceptional talent propelled him to the United States, where he completed his high school education in Kansas and pursued college basketball at Iowa. Following his collegiate career, he ventured across various European nations, refining his skills as a top-tier big man.
Fortune smiled upon Olaseni on June 28, 2023, as he secured a position with a London-based team, enabling him to compete professionally at a continental level within his home city – a realization of his long-held aspiration.
The current season has been nothing short of outstanding for Olaseni. Boasting an average of 18 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, he maintains an impressive 22.9 PIR average, the highest in the competition at present. These figures rank among the most lauded performances in the EuroCup over the last decade, surpassing those of renowned players and leaving an indelible impression on the league.
Olaseni’s exceptional performance bodes well for the London Lions, who are earnestly striving to claim victory and secure a position in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague. The possibility of returning to the EuroLeague, where Olaseni briefly played as a rookie for Brose Baskets, adds an additional layer of significance to his stellar performance.
As the London Lions pursue their EuroLeague aspirations, Olaseni serves as a pivotal asset to the team, bringing a combination of skill, fervor, and hometown pride to the court. His journey stands as a testament to perseverance and unwavering dedication, serving as an inspiration to fellow athletes and fans alike. With each game, Gabe Olaseni continues to etch his name in the chronicles of British basketball history, leaving an enduring mark on the sport.
