In a game that seemed wrapped up well before the final buzzer, Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg gave fans a glimpse of his basketball brilliance. With 12 minutes left, Lendeborg showcased his skills, starting with a smooth dribble move to create space for a three-pointer.
As the shot came up short, he sprinted toward the hoop, snagging the rebound and banking it in with finesse. This sequence perfectly captured why Michigan has been a powerhouse this season, heading to their third Final Four in 13 years.
Lendeborg, a unanimous first-team All-American, has been a standout since transferring to the Wolverines. In the NCAA Midwest Region final against Tennessee, he posted an impressive stat line: 27 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks, leading Michigan to a commanding 95-62 victory. His performance is a key reason Michigan is poised to challenge Arizona in the national semifinal.
Coach Dusty May initially had doubts about his three-big lineup, a departure from the guard-heavy setups dominating college basketball. But Lendeborg's transition from a traditional big man to a versatile player has been pivotal.
At UAB, he excelled with big-man stats, but his ability to hit 35% from beyond the arc hinted at untapped potential. With the addition of 7-3 Aday Mara and 6-10 Morez Johnson, May decided to experiment with playing them together.
The results? Dominant victories over top teams like Gonzaga, Villanova, and Ohio State.
Lendeborg's impact extends beyond the stats. His unselfish play and team-first mentality have been crucial to Michigan's success. In March, as the Wolverines secured a 19-1 Big Ten record and advanced to the Final Four, Lendeborg shot 55.8% from three-point range, averaging 25 points against NCAA Tournament opponents.
Despite not being named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, Lendeborg's defensive versatility makes him a nightmare for opponents. Yet, NBA mock drafts have him mid-first round, likely due to his age. At 24, he's older than many prospects, but his late start in competitive basketball means he still has room to grow.
Coach May emphasizes the importance of developing "April Habits"-championship habits that extend the season into April. For Lendeborg, this is a chance to showcase his talents on the biggest stage, with the potential to surprise even himself in the years to come. April may always trump June in college basketball, but Lendeborg's journey is just beginning.