ANN ARBOR EARTHQUAKE: Yaxel Lendeborg Stuns NBA World, Chooses Michigan Over Draft Dream

In a jaw-dropping turn of events that has sent shockwaves throughout the college basketball landscape and thrilled Michigan fans to their core, rising star forward Yaxel Lendeborg has officially turned down the 2025 NBA Draft and instead committed to the University of Michigan. What many expected to be a one-way ticket to the professional ranks has become a bold statement of belief in Michigan’s future — and a testament to the program’s rapidly rising stature under head coach Dusty May.

Lendeborg, a dynamic 6-foot-9 forward known for his fierce rebounding, shot-blocking, and high-motor play, was widely projected to be a second-round pick in this year’s NBA Draft. Instead, he’s chosen to delay his professional aspirations and pour his energy into helping lead the Wolverines back to national prominence.

Lendeborg’s decision didn’t just come out of the blue — it rocked the foundation of NBA Draft conversations. In an era where high-upside players rarely hesitate to jump at the chance to go pro, Lendeborg’s move bucks the trend and speaks volumes about both his priorities and Michigan’s appeal.

Sources close to the player say Lendeborg was torn during the evaluation process. After receiving solid feedback from NBA scouts during pre-draft workouts, many believed he would declare and stay in the draft pool. But over the past few weeks, Lendeborg reportedly visited Ann Arbor multiple times, sat in on team meetings, and formed an instant bond with May and the coaching staff.

For Michigan, this commitment represents far more than just adding another talented body to the roster — it is a message. A message that the Wolverines are not just rebuilding, they are reloading. And with Dusty May at the helm, they are aiming to do so in emphatic fashion.

Lendeborg is expected to slot in as an immediate starter and possibly even become the centerpiece of the Wolverines’ 2024-25 squad. His ability to defend multiple positions, rebound relentlessly, and finish around the rim makes him a perfect fit in May’s aggressive, up-tempo system.

A native of New Jersey, Lendeborg has quietly developed into one of the most complete forwards in the country. His length, instincts, and toughness make him a nightmare for opposing offenses, and his explosiveness off the dribble and in transition is nothing short of elite.

At his previous stop, he averaged 14.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game while shooting over 55% from the field — numbers that reflect not only raw ability, but also a willingness to do the dirty work. Scouts particularly praised his motor, calling him “relentless,” “fearless,” and “a tone-setter.”

Michigan’s frontcourt, which struggled at times with consistency and physicality last season, now gains a dominant two-way presence who can change the trajectory of games.

Lendeborg’s arrival marks a major recruiting coup for May, who took over the Michigan program with a mandate to restore glory to the Maize and Blue. Already, May has been aggressive in the portal and on the recruiting trail, but securing a player who turned down the NBA for a chance to wear the block “M” is a different level entirely.