Yaxel Lendeborg foregoes NBA Draft, Transfers to Michigan
In a surprising turn of events, Yaxel Lendeborg, a projected late frist-round pick in the 2025 NBA draft, has announced his decision to withdraw his name and spend his final collegiate season with the Michigan Wolverines. The announcement, made Tuesday, comes just before the NCAA’s Wednesday deadline for players to withdraw from the draft and maintain their collage eligibility.
Lendeborg’s Rationale
Lendeborg explained his decision, stating:
While it’s been and still is a dream of mine to play in the NBA, I feel the development and growth as a player and a person I will gain at the University of Michigan will be very beneficial.
This move underscores the increasing value some players place on collegiate development and the opportunities afforded by programs like Michigan’s.
A Statistical powerhouse
Lendeborg, ranked as the No.26 prospect in ESPN’s NBA draft projections, is coming off a stellar season. He averaged 17.7 points,11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.7 steals per game, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court. His shooting percentages were also extraordinary,with 55% from 2-point range and 36% from 3.
Did you know?
lendeborg is one of only two players in Division I history to record over 600 points, 400 rebounds, and 150 assists in a single season. The other player? None other then Larry Bird.
His contributions were instrumental in leading UAB to the NIT quarterfinals. Furthermore, he earned Defensive Player of the Year honors and first-team All-AAC recognition for two consecutive seasons.
Gratitude and Future Aspirations
Lendeborg expressed his gratitude to those who supported him through the draft process:
I’d like to thank Coach May and staff for allowing me to go through this process without any pressure,the Champions Circle collective for helping make this prospect possible,and all the NBA teams I worked out for,allowing me to experience the pre-draft process. Go Blue!
From Video games to Basketball Stardom
Lendeborg’s path to basketball prominence is unconventional.He only played 11 varsity high school games and was later moved to a junior college in Arizona after being scouted at an exposure camp for dominican players. He candidly admits his early priorities were elsewhere:
I was more into video games than basketball for most of my life. I would play 19 hours a day; it was a religion for me. I wasn’t the best student. My mom forced me to get on a plane to Arizona. That was the best thing that ever happened to me.
He credits his time at UAB and the guidance of coach Andy kennedy for his development. I whent from there to UAB, where Andy Kennedy was a father figure for me. This past summer was really the first time I ever had a real organized workout plan. I’m just scratching the surface on the player I can evolve into, and with more work I can reach that potential.
Filling the Void Left by Danny Wolf
Lendeborg’s arrival at Michigan comes at a crucial time, as he is expected to fill the void left by Danny Wolf, who is projected as a top-20 draft pick. Wolf, known for his versatility, played multiple positions for the wolverines.
Pro Tip: Versatility is Key
In modern basketball,players who can play multiple positions and contribute in various ways are highly valued.Lendeborg’s ability to score,rebound,assist,block shots,and steal the ball makes him a valuable asset.
lendeborg was inspired by Wolf’s role in Michigan’s offense:
It’s amazing what Dusty May did with Danny Wolf. I would watch his games this season and say, ‘Man, I wish that was me.’ I’m trying to bring the same type of versatility he brought to Michigan.
Michigan’s Revamped Roster
Michigan’s roster will look considerably different next season, with the addition of several high-impact transfers, including North Carolina point guard Elliot Cadeau, Illinois big man Morez Johnson, and UCLA’s Aday Mara. They will also welcome freshman wing Trey McKenney, a McDonald’s All-American.
