Injured Lendeborg Vows To Play as Michigan Faces UConn in Title Game

Michigan star forward Yaxel Lendeborg declared he absolutely plans to play despite his knee and ankle sprains.

“Yaxel Lendeborg joins Matt Norlander after Final Four win against Arizona to discuss his injury Apr 4th, 2026 - 11:25 PM 00:30 35:54 NCAAM Final Four Recap: No”

247Sports

He was limited to 14 minutes against Arizona, managing 11 points including a pair of 3-pointers.

Bleacher Report

The decision to play will be up to Lendeborg and the medical staff, which indicated confidence after the MRI came back clean.

Lendeborg is Michigan's leading scorer at 15.1 points per game and was first-team All-American and Big Ten Player of the Year.

Lendeborg injured his knee and ankle stepping on an opponent's foot.

He returned in the second half, playing gingerly and calling it his Kobe moment.

CBS Sports

After adrenaline wore off, he started crying and asked God to help him.

There will be intense rehab to get him ready for Monday night.

UConn starter Solo Ball sprained his foot and arrived in a walking boot.

“Yaxel Lendeborg knee injury: Michigan star's MRI comes back 'clean' ahead of national title showdown vs”

CBS Sports

Coach Hurley said he won't practice and they'll see how he feels before the game.

Ball is UConn's leading 3-point shooter at 40.5 percent.

Michigan's superior health provides them a clear advantage.