Elite Michigan Basketball Commit Makes Big Personal Announcement Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated May 29, 2025 7:00 PM ET

The Michigan Wolverines' basketball team has suddenly become a Final Four favorite after the signing of former Alabama-Birmingham Blazers forward Yaxel Lendeborg, who chose Dusty May's team over the 2025 NBA draft.

Lendeborg averaged over 17 points per game with the Blazers last season while excelling as a rebounder and physical presence on the court.

On Thursday, the newest Wolverine became better acquainted with Michigan's Ann Arbor campus as he made an announcement from his locker room at Crisler Arena.

Lendeborg appeared ready to suit up right away for coach May's team as he revealed his latest career decision.

Lendeborg announced that he will wear jersey number 23 for coach May's team next year in Ann Arbor while adding a photo of Michigan's practice court and a ruby red heart emoji.

Lendeborg has stated that he wants to help May and the Wolverines pursue a Big Ten and national championship this fall after their Big Ten Tournament title and Sweet 16 run last season.

He inked a reported multi-million dollar NIL deal to attend school and play for the Wolverines basketball team next season, eschewing the chance to become a 2025 first round draft choice at the professional level.

Lendeborg will team with three noteworthy transfers next season; Aday Mara, Morez Johnson and Elliot Cadeau.

Lendeborg and his teammates have made Michigan a top ten and Final Four pick in several different circles as he fills a need for a Wolverines team bringing back lots of talent and experience next season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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