Sports05 April, 20261 min read
Injured Lendeborg Vows To Play as Michigan Faces UConn in Title Game
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Lendeborg plans to play in the national championship despite sprains to left MCL and ankle. MRI came back clean; medical staff express confidence he will play.
Lendeborg's Determination
Michigan star forward Yaxel Lendeborg declared he absolutely plans to play despite his knee and ankle sprains. He was limited to 14 minutes against Arizona, managing 11 points including a pair of 3-pointers.
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.
The Injury and Rehab
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.
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 Injury Concerns
UConn starter Solo Ball sprained his foot and arrived in a walking boot. 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.