Overview

• Yaxel Lendeborg announced on May 27 that he will withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft to play his final collegiate season under coach Dusty May at Michigan.
• The 22-year-old big man averaged 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks and 1.7 steals per game at UAB, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court.
• Estimates place his Michigan NIL package at up to $4 million, making it one of the richest contracts under the NCAA’s new rules.
• Lendeborg’s return contributes to the lowest number of early entrants in the NBA Draft since 2015 and underscores growing concerns over draft depth driven by escalating NIL incentives.
• Michigan’s revamped 2025–26 roster includes transfers Elliot Cadeau, Morez Johnson and Aday Mara along with freshman Trey McKenney, giving the Wolverines a deep and versatile core.