Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg Claims $7-9M Offer from Kentucky: Report

Yaxel Lendeborg has emerged as Michigan’s defining player this season. He earned All-American honors and the Big Ten Player of the Year award.

Coach Dusty May praised Lendeborg for exceeding expectations. May said the forward had outperformed his perceived value on and off the court.

Transfer offers and the Kentucky proposal

In an interview with the Associated Press, Lendeborg said Kentucky led with a $7 to $9 million pitch. The report says the Wildcats opened negotiations with that $7-9M offer.

Lendeborg arrived at Michigan after a standout senior year at UAB. He averaged 17.7 points and 11.4 rebounds per game at UAB.

Why he picked Michigan

Despite the larger Kentucky bid, Lendeborg said he chose Michigan for long-term reasons. He credited Dusty May’s emphasis on development over money.

The player also said Kentucky’s offer was roughly three times higher than Michigan’s reported package. Michigan has not disclosed its specific financial terms.

On-court impact and upcoming matchup

Lendeborg’s arrival helped Michigan capture the Big Ten regular-season title. He also helped the Wolverines secure a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Michigan is the top seed in the Midwest Region and will play Howard on Thursday night in Buffalo. Lendeborg remains focused on team goals rather than off-court figures.