Who Is Yaxel Lendeborg? A Profile of the UAB Forward and NBA Draft Prospect

Quick Answer

Yaxel Lendeborg is a versatile forward who played college basketball for UAB and Michigan, emerging as a top NBA draft prospect. As of June 2026, he is a 22-year-old consensus first-team All-American, Big Ten Player of the Year, and NCAA champion with Michigan.

He is projected as a first-round pick in the upcoming NBA draft, known for his athleticism, rebounding, defensive skills, and well-rounded game.

Key Facts

• Played for UAB (2023–2025) before transferring to Michigan for the 2025–26 season.
• Averaged 12.0 points and 11.0 rebounds per game in his final college season at Michigan.
• Won NCAA championship in 2026 with Michigan.
• Named Big Ten Player of the Year in 2026.
• Consensus first-team All-American in 2026.
• First-team All-Big Ten and Big Ten All-Defensive Team selection in 2026.
• Two-time first-team All-AAC while at UAB.
• Measured at 6'8.5" with a 7'4" wingspan and 9'0.5" standing reach at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine.
• Averaged 14.9 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game during the 2025–26 season, according to NBADraft.net.
• Projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft but withdrew to transfer to Michigan.
• Known as a high-motor, high-IQ forward who fills the stat sheet in scoring, rebounding, passing, and defense.

Background and Context

Yaxel Lendeborg's journey to becoming a top NBA prospect is a story of steady improvement, strategic transfers, and seizing opportunities. He began his college career at UAB, where he played from the 2023–24 season through the 2024–25 season.

During his time with the Blazers, he established himself as one of the most productive big men in the American Athletic Conference. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged 11.7 points and 10.5 rebounds per game, shooting 54.4% from the field and 33.9% from three-point range.

His all-around contributions earned him two first-team All-AAC selections. After the 2024–25 season, Lendeborg declared for the 2025 NBA Draft and was projected as a first-round pick.

However, he made a surprising decision: he withdrew from the draft and entered the transfer portal. This move was widely covered by media outlets, with ESPN reporting that Lendeborg, described as the best big man in the portal, committed to Michigan and head coach Dusty May.

The transfer was seen as a major coup for Michigan, as CBS Sports noted that Lendeborg was regarded as the top player in the transfer portal at the time. The 2025–26 season at Michigan proved to be a career-defining year.

Lendeborg averaged 12.0 points and 11.0 rebounds per game, leading the Wolverines to an NCAA championship. His individual accolades piled up: Big Ten Player of the Year, consensus first-team All-American, first-team All-Big Ten, and Big Ten All-Defensive Team honors.

He was also named to CBS Sports' All-Transfer Team, cementing his status as the top transfer in the country. This context matters because it shows a player who made a calculated risk.

Instead of entering the NBA draft after a strong season at UAB, he chose to bet on himself by transferring to a high-profile program like Michigan. The gamble paid off with a national title, major individual awards, and improved draft stock.

As of June 2026, he is once again projected as a first-round pick, this time with the added credibility of a championship season.

Detailed Explanation

Early Career at UAB

Lendeborg's college career began at UAB, where he quickly became a key contributor. In the 2023–24 season, he played 34 games, starting 30 of them, and averaged 30.1 minutes per game.

His shooting splits were solid: 54.4% from the field, 33.9% from three-point range, and 74.4% from the free-throw line. He averaged 6.4 points and 11.7 rebounds per game that season, showing early signs of his rebounding prowess.

The 2024–25 season saw Lendeborg elevate his game further. He started all 34 games, averaged 33.1 minutes, and improved his scoring to 11.7 points per game while maintaining high rebounding numbers.

His three-point shooting dipped slightly to 33.9%, but his overall efficiency remained strong. During this period, he established himself as a two-time first-team All-AAC selection, proving he could dominate at the mid-major level.

The Transfer Decision

The most pivotal moment in Lendeborg's career came after the 2024–25 season. He declared for the 2025 NBA Draft and was projected as a first-round pick.

However, he chose to withdraw and enter the transfer portal. This decision was not made lightly.

According to reports at the time, Lendeborg explained that he wanted to compete at a higher level and prove himself against top-tier competition before entering the draft. Michigan, under head coach Dusty May, emerged as the destination.

The Wolverines had just lost key players and needed a versatile big man who could anchor their frontcourt. Lendeborg was seen as the perfect fit.

DraftExpress, a respected scouting service, confirmed the news on social media, calling him "the best big man in the portal." This transfer was covered by multiple outlets, including ESPN and CBS Sports.

Season at Michigan

The 2025–26 season was a triumph for both Lendeborg and Michigan. The Wolverines won the NCAA championship, with Lendeborg playing a central role.

He averaged 12.0 points and 11.0 rebounds per game, recording a double-double average for the season. His stat line also included 3.3 assists per game, showcasing his passing ability, which is rare for a forward his size.

His individual awards reflected his impact. He was named Big Ten Player of the Year, a consensus first-team All-American, and made the Big Ten All-Defensive Team.

The CBS Sports All-Transfer Team recognized him as the top transfer in the country. These accolades were not just statistical achievements—they demonstrated his ability to lead a team to the highest level of success.

NBA Draft Projection

As of June 2026, Lendeborg is projected as a first-round pick in the upcoming NBA draft. His physical measurements are a key selling point: at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, he measured 6'8.5" in height with a 7'4" wingspan and a 9'0.5" standing reach.

These measurements are ideal for a modern NBA forward, allowing him to guard multiple positions and contest shots effectively. Scouting reports highlight his versatility.

He is described as a "high-motor, high-IQ forward" who impacts the game on both ends of the floor. His athleticism allows him to finish above the rim, while his passing ability makes him a threat in pick-and-roll situations.

Defensively, his length and instincts make him a disruptive force. The Yahoo Sports scouting report noted that he "fills the stat sheet in every category, showing off athletic shot creation, dominant rebounding, and versatile defense."

However, there are questions about his position at the next level.

Some analysts, like a Warriors reporter, have pointed out potential red flags, though the specifics were not detailed in the available references. His age—22 years old as of the draft—is slightly older than some prospects, but his experience and production are seen as assets rather than liabilities.

Common Questions and Misconceptions

Misconception Lendeborg is a traditional power forward who can't stretch the floor

Many assume that a player who averages a double-double is a traditional, low-post big man. However, Lendeborg's three-point shooting (33.9% from deep in his final UAB season) and his ability to pass from the high post make him a stretch forward.

His scouting reports consistently mention his "modern wing" skills, including bounce, defensive bite, and passing ability. He is not a back-to-the-basket player; he thrives in space.

Misconception Transferring to Michigan was a step down

Some might think moving from a mid-major program like UAB to a power conference school like Michigan is simply a "step up." But Lendeborg's transfer was a calculated risk. He had to learn a new system, build chemistry with new teammates, and face tougher competition every night.

The fact that he won the NCAA championship and earned Big Ten Player of the Year honors shows that the move was a success, not a downgrade.

Misconception He is a one-year wonder at Michigan

Lendeborg's final season at Michigan was spectacular, but it was built on a foundation of consistent production at UAB. He averaged a double-double in the 2024–25 season at UAB (11.7 points, 10.5 rebounds) and was a two-time first-team All-AAC selection.

His Michigan season was the culmination of years of development, not a fluke.

Misconception His age makes him less valuable

At 22 years old, Lendeborg is older than typical one-and-done prospects. Some NBA teams prefer younger players with higher upside.

However, his age also means he is more experienced, more physically developed, and more ready to contribute immediately. For a team picking in the late first round, a proven, high-motor player like Lendeborg can be a valuable addition to the rotation.

Misconception He is only a scorer

Lendeborg's scoring average (14.9 points per game in 2025–26) is impressive, but his value goes far beyond points. His rebounding (7.0 per game), assists (3.3 per game), and defensive impact are equally important.

Scouting reports emphasize his "versatile defense" and ability to guard multiple positions. He is a well-rounded player, not a one-dimensional scorer.

What to Watch For

For NBA fans and analysts tracking Yaxel Lendeborg's draft stock, several factors will determine his success at the next level. Draft position: As of June 2026, Lendeborg is projected as a first-round pick.

The exact slot will depend on team needs and how other prospects perform in workouts. Teams looking for a versatile forward who can defend, rebound, and pass will find him attractive.

If he falls to the late first round, he could be a steal for a contender. Workout and interview performance: Lendeborg's combine measurements are already known, but his interviews and private workouts will be crucial.

Teams will want to assess his basketball IQ, work ethic, and fit within their system. His high-motor reputation should help in these settings.

Positional fit in the NBA: The modern NBA values forwards who can switch on defense, shoot from the perimeter, and handle the ball. Lendeborg's combination of size (6'8.5" with a 7'4" wingspan) and skill set makes him a potential "stretch four" or small-ball center.

Teams like the Phoenix Suns, who have been linked to him in mock drafts, could use his "modern wing with bounce and defensive bite."

Development areas: While Lendeborg is a polished college player, he will need to refine his three-point shooting consistency and decision-making at NBA speed. His free-throw percentage (74.4%) suggests he has a solid foundation, but he will need to become a more reliable outside shooter to space the floor effectively.

Potential return to Michigan: According to some reports, Lendeborg may return to Michigan if he does not secure a contract as expected. However, given his current projection as a first-round pick, it is likely he will enter the draft.

His decision will be finalized in the coming weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Yaxel Lendeborg's physical measurements?

At the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, Lendeborg measured 6'8.5" in height, with a 7'4" wingspan and a 9'0.5" standing reach. These measurements are considered excellent for an NBA forward.

Why did he transfer from UAB to Michigan?

Lendeborg withdrew from the 2025 NBA Draft and entered the transfer portal. He committed to Michigan to compete at a higher level and improve his draft stock.

The move paid off with an NCAA championship and major individual awards.

What are his strengths as a prospect?

Scouting reports highlight his athleticism, rebounding, defensive versatility, and passing ability. He is described as a "high-motor, high-IQ forward" who fills the stat sheet in multiple categories.

What is his draft projection?

As of June 2026, Lendeborg is projected as a first-round pick in the upcoming NBA draft. He was also projected as a first-round pick in 2025 before withdrawing.

What awards did he win at Michigan?

In the 2025–26 season, Lendeborg was named Big Ten Player of the Year, consensus first-team All-American, first-team All-Big Ten, and Big Ten All-Defensive Team. He also won the NCAA championship with Michigan.

Reference Notes

Information in this article is based on publicly available sources. Some details may change over time.

Verify with official sources before acting.