Michigan basketball was the perfect place for Yaxel Lendeborg to thrive, but when it comes to the NBA draft, it's hard to think of a better home than the Golden State Warriors.
The Warriors are past their prime. They are trying to put together one last title run with a team built around Steph Curry.
Lendeborg didn't go as early as some expected. It's hard to believe he fell out of the top 10 (11th overall), but the 6-foot-9 All-American is a perfect fit for Golden State, a destination that wipes away some of the concern about Yaxel's age.
The biggest concern about Yaxel Lendeborg won't be a problem with Golden State Warriors
In the NBA draft, being a little older can work against you. Lendeborg didn't take the traditional path to the NBA, at least for a lottery pick. He started out at the JUCO level, before transferring to UAB.
This past season, after deciding to withdraw from the 2025 NBA draft, Lendebrorg thrived. He has played the three, four, and five during the past two seasons. That versatility, his ability to defend, score, hit 3-point shots, and make plays for others, will be invaluable.
There won't be a development curve with Yaxel either, at least not as steep as the usual NBA rookie. He should have the ability to start right away. The former Michigan basketball superstar is certainly good enough on defense, and if he can shoot 39 percent from beyond the arc as he did last season, the Warriors will be over the moon.
More importantly, he fits the Warriors timeline better than an 19-year old. Yaxel can help the Warriors right away, and with all of their leadership, it should help keep him in check. Some have wondered about his maturity. It was an issue Dusty May mentioned early in the 2025-26 season.
Michigan basketball ended up with three lottery picks. Lendeborg could still wind up being the best in the NBA. At the very least, he should have the most immediate impact.
Add us as a preferred source on Google