sports

Lendeborg: Michigan's Versatile Forward Star

Yaxel Lendeborg has become a cornerstone of No. 1 Michigan's success as a versatile 6-9 forward averaging 14.4 points and 7.5 rebounds this season.

The 6-foot-9 forward has proven invaluable to Michigan's 25-1 record, showcasing his ability to dominate in transition and improve his perimeter shooting. After transferring from UAB where he averaged double-doubles in the American Conference, Lendeborg has quickly emerged as one of college basketball's most versatile players.

Lendeborg's standout performance against Ohio State earned him a spot on FOX Sports' "GOT IT" team and has positioned him as a potential first-round NBA draft prospect in 2026. His combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ makes him a matchup nightmare who can guard multiple positions while scoring in various ways.