Yaxel Lendeborg: UAB PF Rising Star Shows Dominant Performance in 2024-25 Season
Yaxel Lendeborg has quickly become one of the most coveted players in college basketball. The 6-foot-9, 230-pound power forward from Yuma, Arizona emerged as a dominant force for UAB during the 2024-25 season. He earned Preseason American Conference Player of the Year honors and a spot on the Preseason American Conference First Team. Lendeborg, widely regarded as the top available transfer player, committed to Michigan basketball on April 5, 2025.
His journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Lendeborg developed into a statistical marvel at UAB, showcasing his versatility as both a scoring threat and rebounding machine. His combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ has NBA scouts taking serious notice, with many draft analysts projecting him as a potential first-round selection. The power forward’s decision to commit to Michigan marks the end of what he described as a “whirlwind recruitment” following his entry into the transfer portal.
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Yaxel Lendeborg: Career Overview
Yaxel Lendeborg has emerged as one of college basketball’s most intriguing prospects, transforming from a junior college standout to a dominant force at UAB. His journey showcases remarkable development in rebounding, scoring ability, and defensive versatility.
High School and Junior College Career
Hailing from Pennsauken, New Jersey, Yaxel Lendeborg first made his mark at Pennsauken High School before taking the junior college route to develop his game. His JUCO career proved transformative, as he blossomed into a two-time NJCAA All-American.
During his junior college stint, Lendeborg earned Second Team All-American honors in 2022-23 and Third Team recognition in 2021-22. His statistical production was eye-catching, as he averaged 17.2 points and 13.0 rebounds during his final JUCO season.
The 6-foot-9, 230-pound forward showed tremendous growth during this period, developing both his interior scoring and rebounding prowess while beginning to expand his defensive versatility.
Rise to Prominence at UAB
Lendeborg’s transition to Division I basketball with the UAB Blazers proved seamless as he quickly established himself as one of the program’s cornerstone players. His statistical impact has been immediate and profound across multiple categories.
The forward has filled up box scores with his dominant rebounding abilities and versatile defense while showing impressive athletic shot creation. At UAB, his all-around game flourished under the program’s development system.
Lendeborg’s performances have caught the attention of NBA scouts, with his draft stock rising significantly. His combination of size, rebounding prowess, and developing offensive skills make him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft.
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
Yaxel Lendeborg established himself as a cornerstone of UAB’s basketball program during the 2024-25 season. His dominant presence in the paint and leadership on the court helped elevate the Blazers’ performance in their American Athletic Conference campaign.
Lendeborg’s Impact on the Blazers
Lendeborg became the undeniable force for UAB basketball immediately upon his arrival. The 6’9″ forward’s versatility made him a nightmare for opponents on both ends of the floor. His rebounding prowess particularly stood out, consistently clearing the glass with authority.
What made Lendeborg special wasn’t just his statistical output but his game-changing defensive presence. Opposing coaches frequently had to adjust their entire offensive strategies to account for his shot-blocking ability.
Key Statistics for 2024-25 Season:
| Category | Average | AAC Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 14.2 | 8th |
| Rebounds | 10.7 | 1st |
| Blocks | 2.3 | 2nd |
| Field Goal % | 55.8% | 3rd |
NBA scouts took notice of Lendeborg’s development at UAB, with most draft analysts projecting him as a potential second-round selection with upside as a defensive specialist and energy big.
Achievements and All-AAC Recognition
Lendeborg’s stellar play earned him Preseason American Athletic Conference Player of the Year honors before the 2024-25 campaign even began. The forward lived up to the hype, securing First Team All-AAC recognition when the season concluded.
His defensive dominance nearly earned him the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year award, finishing as the runner-up despite leading the AAC in defensive rating.
The accolades continued beyond conference recognition when Lendeborg was named First Team NABC All-District for the Southeast region. This honor underscored his national reputation as one of the premier forwards in college basketball.
His productive season at UAB ultimately positioned him as one of the most coveted players in the transfer portal, catching the attention of several high-major programs seeking an immediate impact big man.
Analyzing Lendeborg’s Playing Style
Yaxel Lendeborg brings a unique blend of athleticism, defensive versatility, and improving offensive skills to the basketball court. His all-around game has caught the attention of both college basketball analysts and NBA scouts.
Defensive Prowess
Lendeborg’s defensive impact at UAB cannot be overstated. His combination of length, lateral quickness, and basketball IQ makes him a multifaceted defender capable of guarding multiple positions. He excels particularly in help-side defense, often rotating perfectly to protect the rim.
What separates Lendeborg is his knack for blocking shots without fouling. At 6’9″ with a reported 7’2″ wingspan, he averaged 2.1 blocks per game while maintaining disciplined verticality principles.
His defensive rebounding technique is textbook. Lendeborg boxes out consistently and has strong hands to secure possessions. This defensive tenacity earned him Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year honors and placed him on several All-Defensive teams.
NBA scouts praise his switchability on pick-and-rolls, a crucial skill in today’s professional game.
Offensive Contributions
Lendeborg’s offensive game has shown remarkable growth. Initially viewed as a raw athlete, he’s developed into a reliable scoring option with expanding range.
His dominant stat-filling performances showcase his well-rounded offensive abilities. One particularly impressive game featured Lendeborg shooting 9-for-16 from the floor and 11-for-13 from the free-throw line without a single turnover.
| Offensive Stat | Average |
|---|---|
| Points | 15.8 |
| FG% | 56.2% |
| FT% | 78.4% |
| Offensive Rebounds | 3.7 |
His face-up game has improved dramatically, with confident mid-range shooting and developing three-point range. Lendeborg also displays solid passing vision for a big man, finding cutters from the high post.
Most impressive is his offensive rebounding – he creates second-chance opportunities through timing and effort rather than just size.
Team Dynamics and Role as a Power Forward
As UAB’s power forward, Lendeborg serves as the team’s defensive anchor while providing scoring punch. His versatility allows coaches to deploy various lineup combinations around him.
Lendeborg’s statistics-stuffing abilities reflect his all-around impact. He contributes in every category without dominating ball possession, making him an ideal complementary piece.
What’s fascinating about Lendeborg is how he maximizes his effectiveness without set plays. He scores through offensive rebounds, transition opportunities, and smart cuts – all high-efficiency methods that translate well to the next level.
Currently projected as a late first to early second-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Lendeborg’s NBA stock continues rising. His recent decision to enter the transfer portal while maintaining draft eligibility suggests he’s considering all options for maximizing his professional potential.
NBA Draft Considerations
Lendeborg’s draft stock has risen considerably following his standout season at UAB, where he led the Blazers in every statistical category. The 6-foot-9 forward has firmly established himself on NBA draft boards as a potential late first-round selection.
Draft analysts point to his unique combination of rebounding prowess, defensive versatility, and developing offensive game. Lendeborg’s ability to fill the stat sheet in every category has drawn attention from scouts who value multi-dimensional forwards.
Current Draft Projections:
| Source | Projection | Key Strength Noted |
|---|---|---|
| ESPN | Late 1st Round | Rebounding/Defense |
| The Athletic | 25-35 Range | Versatility |
| NBA Draft Net | Early 2nd Round | Statistical Production |
Lendeborg has wisely opted to maintain collegiate eligibility while testing the draft waters, giving himself flexibility to return for another season if feedback suggests he could improve his stock.
Potential G League Impact
Should Lendeborg choose the professional route but go undrafted, the G League presents a viable pathway. His skill set as a statistical producer translates well to the development league format.
G League scouts have shown interest in Lendeborg’s defensive versatility and rebounding ability – two traits that typically translate immediately to professional play. His 11.4 rebounds per game at UAB demonstrates a skill that G League teams covet.
Several G League Ignite representatives have reportedly observed Lendeborg’s workouts, suggesting there could be a spot for him if he prioritizes immediate professional development over returning to college. The financial incentives of the Ignite program could factor into his decision.
Interest from Top Collegiate Programs
Before committing to Michigan, Lendeborg was perhaps the most coveted player in the transfer portal. As the top-rated transfer portal player by both On3 and 247Sports, he fielded interest from numerous blue-blood programs.
Auburn and Kentucky pursued Lendeborg aggressively, with both programs envisioning him as an immediate impact player who could elevate their frontcourt. His decision to choose Michigan speaks to their player development pitch and potential NBA pathway.
The Wolverines’ coaching staff likely emphasized their track record of developing NBA forwards and promised a featured role that would showcase Lendeborg’s versatile skillset. His commitment represents a massive win for Michigan’s rebuilding efforts.
The Significance of Transfer Decisions
The college basketball transfer landscape has dramatically shifted in recent years, with players like Yaxel Lendeborg making decisions that reshape program trajectories. These transfers impact not only the players themselves but also the competitive balance across conferences.
Impact on Collegiate Team Composition
Michigan basketball just scored a massive win in the transfer portal by landing Yaxel Lendeborg, widely considered the top available player in this cycle. The former UAB standout joins an impressive transfer class that includes North Carolina point guard Elliot Cadeau and Illinois forward Morez Johnson Jr.
Lendeborg’s decision dramatically shifts the Big Ten power structure. As the #1 ranked transfer, his post presence immediately elevates Michigan’s frontcourt capabilities.
Lendeborg’s UAB Statistics 2024-25
| Category | Stats | Conference Rank |
|---|---|---|
| PPG | 13.2 | 9th |
| RPG | 10.8 | 1st |
| BPG | 2.1 | 2nd |
| FG% | 55.2% | 3rd |
NBA scouts have Lendeborg projected as a potential late first-round pick due to his elite rebounding and rim protection. His defensive versatility and improving offensive game make him an intriguing prospect.
Transfer Consent and Compliance
The NCAA’s transfer portal regulations have evolved significantly, with consent procedures now streamlined for players like Lendeborg. His transfer complied with all NCAA requirements, including proper notification periods and academic standing verification.
Unlike earlier eras when transfers faced significant hurdles, today’s players benefit from more athlete-friendly policies. Lendeborg had complete agency in his decision-making process.
The compliance process for high-profile transfers involves multiple verification steps. Eligibility checks ensure academic requirements are met, while immediate eligibility rules now allow most first-time transfers to play without sitting out a season.
For NBA prospects like Lendeborg, these transfer decisions carry significant weight. His move to Michigan puts him on a bigger stage, potentially boosting his draft stock through increased visibility against top-tier competition.
NCAA and Beyond: Academic and Athletic Balancing Act
Yaxel Lendeborg’s journey through college basketball highlights the delicate balance between academic requirements and athletic development. His experience at UAB demonstrates how student-athletes navigate eligibility rules while preparing for professional opportunities.
Maintaining College Eligibility
Lendeborg has been exemplary in maintaining his NCAA eligibility while dominating on the court for UAB. As a two-time AAC Defensive Player of the Year, he’s managed to keep his academics in good standing despite the demanding schedule of Division I basketball.
His in-season routine typically includes morning practices, afternoon classes, and evening study sessions. The power forward has worked closely with UAB’s academic support staff to schedule classes around team travel.
Lendeborg’s discipline extends beyond the court. He’s maintained the minimum GPA required by the NCAA while taking a full course load each semester. This consistency has allowed him to remain eligible throughout his collegiate career without academic interruptions.
Life After NCAA Sports
With his college career winding down, Lendeborg has positioned himself well for professional opportunities. NBA scouts have taken notice of his defensive prowess and improving offensive game, with most draft analysts projecting him as a potential second-round pick.
| NBA Draft Projection | Strengths | Areas for Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-to-Late 2nd Round | Defensive versatility, Rebounding | Perimeter shooting |
| 45-60 Range | High motor, Athleticism | Offensive creation |
Lendeborg has also prepared for life beyond basketball. He’s pursued a degree that offers career flexibility if professional basketball doesn’t materialize. His recent transfer to Michigan suggests he’s valuing both athletic development and academic opportunities.
The power forward has networked with UAB alumni in various industries, demonstrating foresight about the relatively short career span of professional athletes. This balanced approach reflects a mature understanding of both athletic aspirations and long-term career planning.
Cultural and Media Influence
Yaxel Lendeborg’s rise to basketball prominence has made him increasingly visible in media channels and popular culture, creating a substantial footprint that extends beyond the hardwood.
Presence on Social Media and Apps
Lendeborg’s social media following has exploded since his standout performances at UAB. His Instagram account gained over 50,000 followers during the 2024-25 season alone, with his highlight dunks and blocks routinely gathering hundreds of thousands of views.
The 6’9″ forward has become particularly popular on basketball-focused apps where his metrics stand out. On the widely-used SITI basketball analytics app, Lendeborg ranks in the top percentile for engagement among college players.
Yahoo Sports has featured him prominently in their college basketball coverage, with their fantasy basketball app seeing his name among the most searched college prospects by NBA fans.
His authenticity online has resonated with younger fans. Unlike many prospects who carefully curate their image, Lendeborg offers genuine glimpses into his training regimen and personal life.
Coverage by Sports News Outlets
Major sports outlets have increasingly spotlighted Lendeborg as his NBA draft stock has risen. ESPN analysts now regularly include him in first-round mock drafts, with his defensive abilities drawing particular praise.
| Mock Draft Rankings | Position | Key Attribute Highlighted |
|---|---|---|
| ESPN | 21st overall | Defensive versatility |
| Yahoo Sports | 18th overall | Rebounding prowess |
| The Athletic | 22nd overall | NBA-ready physicality |
His AAC Defensive Player of the Year honor garnered significant media attention, with several feature stories examining his journey from under-recruited prospect to legitimate NBA talent.
The announcement of his transfer to Michigan created a media buzz rarely seen for portal commitments. Coach Dusty May‘s program has benefited from the increased exposure, with Michigan basketball coverage spiking since Lendeborg’s commitment.
Community Engagement and Personal Branding
Yaxel Lendeborg has steadily built his reputation beyond the hardwood at UAB. The standout power forward understands that visibility extends beyond box scores and highlight reels.
On campus, Lendeborg has participated in several community service initiatives. He worked with local youth basketball programs in Birmingham. These experiences reflect his commitment to giving back while establishing connections within the community.
His academic path shows a practical approach to his future. After earning an associates degree in sports marketing, he’s now pursuing a bachelor’s in general studies at UAB. He balances academic responsibilities with athletic demands.
Lendeborg’s personal branding strategy has been refreshingly straightforward. Rather than flashy social media campaigns, he’s let his on-court production speak volumes. His dominant 2024-25 season catapulted him to the top of transfer portal rankings.
| Lendeborg’s 2024-25 Stats | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 17.7 |
| Rebounds per game | 11.4 |
| NBA Draft Projection | Late 1st-Early 2nd Round |
NBA scouts have taken notice of Lendeborg’s production. They are considering his rebounding prowess and developing offensive game. These skills have earned him mid-to-late first round consideration in mock drafts. His high motor and glass-cleaning ability project as skills that could translate immediately at the next level.
His recent commitment to Michigan demonstrates his strategic thinking about personal development and visibility before potentially making the NBA leap.
