Yaxel Lendeborg: Michigan Bound After Withdrawing From NBA Draft
- Yaxel lendeborg, a promising NBA draft prospect, has decided to withdraw from the 2025 NBA draft and instead play his final college season with the Michigan Wolverines.
- 26 prospect by ESPN, showcased his talent at UAB, averaging 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, and impressive defensive stats.
- The decision to forgo the NBA draft underscores Lendeborg's focus on personal and athletic growth.
Yaxel Lendeborg,a rising star projected for the NBA,has made a surprising move,choosing Michigan over the 2025 NBA Draft. This bold decision positions the Wolverines for a significant boost, adding a versatile player to their roster. Lendeborg, who averaged nearly 18 points and 12 rebounds at UAB, cited the chance for advanced development as a key factor, underscoring his commitment to growth and athletic excellence. See how News Directory 3 is the first to cover this breaking sports story. Discover the trajectory of Lendeborg’s career, including his journey from junior college to becoming a sought-after prospect, and how his skills will integrate with Michigan’s evolving strategy. Find out how the addition of Lendeborg, combined with other transfers, could reshape the Wolverines’ prospects for the upcoming season. Discover what’s next for Michigan basketball.
Yaxel Lendeborg Chooses Michigan Over NBA Draft
Updated May 27, 2025
Yaxel lendeborg, a promising NBA draft prospect, has decided to withdraw from the 2025 NBA draft and instead play his final college season with the Michigan Wolverines. Lendeborg announced his decision Tuesday, just ahead of the NCAA’s Wednesday deadline for players to maintain college eligibility.
Lendeborg, ranked as the No. 26 prospect by ESPN, showcased his talent at UAB, averaging 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, and impressive defensive stats. His all-around game made him one of only two Division I players to surpass 600 points, 400 rebounds, and 150 assists in a single season, a feat previously achieved only by Larry Bird.
The decision to forgo the NBA draft underscores Lendeborg’s focus on personal and athletic growth. “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,” Lendeborg told ESPN.
Lendeborg also expressed gratitude to his former coach and the NBA teams that provided pre-draft workout opportunities. “I’d like to thank Coach May and staff for allowing me to go thru this process without any pressure…and all the NBA teams I worked out for,allowing me to experience the predraft process,” Lendeborg saeid.
His journey to this point is unique. After a limited high school career, Lendeborg’s mother encouraged him to attend a junior college in Arizona. He credits this move, along with his time at UAB, for his development. “I’m just scratching the surface on the player I can evolve into, and with more work I can reach that potential,” Lendeborg said.
“I was more into video games than basketball for most of my life,” Lendeborg told ESPN. ”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.”
At Michigan, Lendeborg is expected to fill the void left by Danny Wolf.He was also drawn to the way coach Dusty May utilized Wolf’s versatility. “It’s amazing what Dusty May did with Danny Wolf,” Lendeborg said. “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.”
What’s next
Michigan’s roster will see important changes next season, with the addition of transfers Elliot Cadeau, Morez Johnson, Aday Mara, and freshman Trey McKenney.Lendeborg’s decision adds another layer of excitement as the Wolverines aim for a strong season.