When it comes to March Madness, sometimes a player steps up and leaves everyone wondering if the accolades came a bit too early. Enter Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg, whose recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular. If the Naismith Award ballots were still open, Lendeborg would surely have voters reconsidering their choices.
Now, let’s give credit where it’s due-Duke's Cameron Boozer is set to take home the Naismith Award, and rightly so. His standout performance against Michigan back in February was a testament to his talent. But Lendeborg's recent surge has been a game-changer.
In the last few weeks, Lendeborg has elevated his play to another stratosphere. Against Saint Louis in the second round, when Michigan needed a hero, Lendeborg answered the call. The Sweet 16 clash with Alabama was neck-and-neck until Lendeborg took control, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the court.
His tournament opener against Howard didn't require much from him, but he still left a mark. Then, against the Billikens, he exploded for 25 points on 9-of-13 shooting, snagged six rebounds, and dished out two assists. This was just the beginning.
Facing Alabama, Lendeborg was on fire with 23 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists, hitting 75% of his shots and going 4-for-5 from beyond the arc. It seemed like he couldn’t be stopped, and yet, he took it up another notch on Sunday.
With teammates Aday Mara and Morez Johnson in foul trouble, Michigan leaned heavily on Lendeborg. He delivered 27 points on 10-of-19 shooting, including three treys, while adding seven rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and a steal. Over his last three games, he's averaged 25 points, 8.3 rebounds, 3.25 assists, a block, and a steal, shooting a scorching 61% from the field and 50% from downtown.
Lendeborg's versatility shines on defense as well, making him an all-around threat. If the Naismith votes were cast today, it’s hard to imagine anyone else taking home the trophy. Lendeborg has made this March Madness one to remember.