Yaxel Lendeborg Commits to Michigan After UAB Success

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Yaxel Lendeborg, one of the top prospects in the NCAA transfer portal, has officially committed to the University of Michigan after two standout seasons at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Lendeborg announced his decision on Saturday, a move that could reshape the Wolverines’ upcoming basketball roster.

While Lendeborg is looking forward to joining Michigan, he is also determined to explore his options for the 2025 NBA Draft. “I want a guaranteed contract. That’s the biggest thing. Make sure I am in a good spot. I would prefer to play college basketball in Ann Arbor than be in and out of the G League on a two-way deal,” he said, emphasizing his aspirations for a secure professional career.

The 6-foot-9 forward is projected as a potential late first-round pick, currently ranked No. 28 in ESPN‘s draft projections. Lendeborg plans to test the draft waters before making a final decision regarding his eligibility. The deadline to withdraw from the draft is May 28, shortly after the NBA combine, which takes place from May 11-18 in Chicago.

During his time at UAB, Lendeborg was a formidable player, averaging 17.9 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 1.6 steals per game. His shooting percentages were impressive as well, with 55% from two-point range and 36% from beyond the arc. His performance helped lead UAB to the quarterfinals of the NIT, and he is recognized as one of the few players in Division I history to register over 600 points, 400 rebounds, and 150 assists in a season, a feat achieved only previously by Larry Bird.

Lendeborg’s accolades also include being named the Defensive Player of the Year and earning first-team All-American Athletic Conference honors in each of the past two seasons. Despite having limited experience playing organized basketball prior to UAB, he has shown remarkable progress and potential.

“I was more into video games than basketball for most of my life,” Lendeborg admitted, reflecting on his early years. His journey took a turn when his mother encouraged him to move across the country to attend a junior college in Arizona. “That was the best thing that ever happened to me. I went from there to UAB, where Andy Kennedy was a father figure for me,” he stated.

At Michigan, Lendeborg is set to fill the gap left by Danny Wolf, a projected top-20 draft pick who had a standout season with the Wolverines. Lendeborg believes that Wolf’s success illustrates what can be achieved under Head Coach Dusty May‘s mentorship. “It’s amazing what Dusty May did with Danny Wolf. I watched his games this season and said, ‘Man, I wish that was me. I’m trying to bring the same type of versatility he brought to Michigan,” he expressed.

If Lendeborg withdraws from the draft, he is expected to make a significant impact on the Michigan team, which is focused on both short-term success and long-term growth. With the addition of Lendeborg, Michigan aims to solidify its roster and contend at a high level in the Big Ten.

As the offseason continues, Lendeborg’s journey will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike to see how his draft aspirations and commitment to Michigan unfold.