Michigan standout ‘super confident’ he’s ready for NBA

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Yaxel Lendeborg overcame early setbacks and an unconventional path through junior college and multiple transfers to become a key player for the University of Michigan's national championship team and earn Big Ten Player of the Year honors. His decision to withdraw from the 2025 NBA draft and return to college helped him develop the mental and physical readiness that boosted his projected 2026 draft status into the late lottery range.

Yaxel Lendeborg’s ascent to NBA prospect status defies conventional paths. Born in Puerto Rico to Dominican parents and raised in Pennsauken, New Jersey, Lendeborg’s early basketball journey was marked by setbacks and late development. Although both of his parents represented the Dominican Republic national team, Lendeborg did not begin playing organized basketball until age 15. During his freshman year at Pennsauken High School, academic struggles led to his removal from the varsity team, sidelining him for two full seasons. He returned late in his senior year, contributing to a strong finish in which the team won 10 of their final 11 games.

After high school, Lendeborg took an unconventional route, starting at Arizona Western College before transferring to the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He ultimately joined the University of Michigan, where he played a pivotal role in securing the Wolverines’ second-ever national championship in March. His senior year culminated with him earning the Big Ten Player of the Year award.

Lendeborg nearly missed the opportunity to be part of Michigan’s title run. Originally declaring for the 2025 NBA draft, he withdrew before the process and transferred to Michigan, a move that included a significant name, image, and likeness (NIL) contract. This decision allowed him to refine his skills and increase his draft stock through an additional collegiate season.

Reflecting on his development in a recent pre-draft interview, Lendeborg admitted that he initially felt unprepared for the demands of professional basketball and the lifestyle it entails. “I didn’t feel, in a way, that I was ready for the NBA lifestyle,” he said. “I felt like if I had made it to the league, I wouldn’t have lasted a week in there. I was very weak-minded, and ultimately I just wasn’t ready.” However, he credits his senior year with building his confidence, overcoming obstacles, and solidifying his mental readiness. “This has been the first year where I felt super confident in myself and was able to overcome most obstacles,” he noted.

Once regarded as a borderline first-round pick ahead of the 2025 draft, Lendeborg’s standing has markedly improved. He received a green room invitation for the 2026 NBA draft and is projected by many analysts to be selected in the late lottery of the first round.

Throughout his journey, Lendeborg emphasized the importance of the support network around him. “Everybody puts down their selves to pick me up … it’s really nice to have that kind of circle,” he said, highlighting the role family and friends have played in his progress. As he prepares for the next stage of his career, he remains focused on bringing energy and positivity to his new environment. “Continuing to bring life to every room and situation that I’m in,” he affirmed.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.