Michigan Wolverines basketball graduate forward Yaxel Lendeborg delivered an impressive performance with 31 points and 12 rebounds during a closely contested exhibition game against Cincinnati on October 17, which ended in a narrow 100-98 loss for Michigan. Despite the standout numbers, head coach Dusty May emphasized that Lendeborg still has room for improvement, highlighting the potential he has to make a greater impact on winning.
May’s remarks centered on Lendeborg’s “ceiling,” suggesting that the 6-foot-9 UAB transfer possesses capabilities that extend beyond his current contributions. Lendeborg, initially taken aback by May’s comments, quickly recognized them as a sign of the expectations placed upon him.
“I love it,” Lendeborg said. “He expects me to be a lottery pick, a long-term NBA guy, and I’m just expecting to play basketball for as long as I can, whether it’s NBA or Euro, pro, wherever.”
Lendeborg acknowledged that the coaching staff’s focus has been to push him towards excellence, emphasizing that he is still adjusting to such high standards. He reflected on the critical moments in the game against Cincinnati where his performance could have been better, especially regarding defense and rebounding.
“I didn’t go get it,” he admitted, referring to missed opportunities on the boards that could have made a difference in the final score. “That play right there was the determining factor.”
However, Lendeborg quickly bounced back in his next outing, scoring 25 points and securing 10 rebounds in a thrilling 96-94 overtime win against St. John’s, showcasing his resilience and capacity to learn from past experiences.
As the Wolverines integrate a fast-paced tempo into their style of play, Lendeborg has faced the challenge of adjusting to this new rhythm. Feeling winded during the Cincinnati game due to the tempo, he reported that his conditioning is improving as the season approaches, and he appreciates the increased opportunities for shot attempts in this system.
“I’ve never gotten this many opportunities to take this many shots as quickly,” Lendeborg noted, recognizing the shift in his role within the offense.
During the summer, Lendeborg was considered a potential first-round NBA Draft pick, but he chose to return to college, using the feedback from NBA teams as a motivator for improvement. Key areas of focus have included enhancing his defensive skills and playing effectively through contact, which continue to be emphasized by Coach May.
“The biggest thing I’ve heard is the defensive end and playing through contact,” he stated, outlining the constructive criticism he has received.
As Lendeborg works to refine these skills, he is confident that the coaching staff at Michigan will continuously challenge him to grow as a player. Coach May likened this journey to climbing mountains and hinted that achieving one milestone simply leads to the next challenge.
The overarching sentiment is one of hope and potential, as Lendeborg embraces the challenges and opportunities ahead amidst high expectations, with the goal of evolving into a complete and elite player for the Wolverines this season.