Michigan’s Lendeborg Vows to Play Title Game After Knee, Ankle Sprains
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Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg said he plans to suit up for Monday’s NCAA championship despite spraining the MCL in his left knee and his left ankle during Saturday’s Final Four win over Arizona.
“I will be on that floor in that game,” the fifth-year senior told ESPN after the 86-59 victory in Indianapolis. Lendeborg, a projected first-round pick, left the court twice in the first half and logged only 14 minutes because of the injuries and early foul trouble. He returned briefly after halftime but acknowledged he was “far from 100 percent.”
“I was very scared to guard out there,” the 6-foot-9 forward said. “When I play Monday, I’m going to be a corner three-point shooter.”
Michigan trainer Chris Williams said swelling was minimal and that the Big Ten Player of the Year will receive round-the-clock treatment before the title game.
Mara Takes Over
With Lendeborg limited, junior center Aday Mara delivered 26 points on 11-of-16 shooting, nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks in 30 minutes. “Aday was sensational,” head coach Dusty May said. The 7-foot-3 Spaniard is No. 32 on ESPN’s best-available list for the 2026 NBA draft.
Prospects to Watch
Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor highlighted 24 prospects before the Final Four, a group that included Lendeborg, Mara and Arizona’s Koa Peat. On the other side of the bracket, UConn beat Illinois and will chase its third national title in four seasons.
Hurley Addresses Coaching Rumors
UConn head coach Dan Hurley told Field of 68 he is not pursuing North Carolina’s vacant job but did not rule out an eventual move to the NBA. “I’m a UConn coach until the end,” Hurley said, adding that “maybe the NBA some day down the line.” The Lakers attempted to hire him two years ago before he signed a long-term extension to remain in Storrs.
Lewis Tests Draft Waters
Acaden Lewis, a 6-foot-2 freshman guard at Villanova, will enter the NBA draft while retaining college eligibility, he told On3. A second-team All-Big East choice in 2025-26, Lewis has also entered the transfer portal.
Source: HoopsRumors
