Yaxel Lendeborg is making a serious case that the Warriors got a steal with the 11th pick. The latest evidence came Saturday night, when he led Golden State past the Los Angeles Lakers 92-88 in the NBA Summer League semifinals in Las Vegas.
Lendeborg, who won a national championship at Michigan in 2026 before entering the draft, has been a steady presence all through Vegas. He’s not just scoring. He’s rebounding, defending and setting up teammates. It’s the kind of all-around stuff that usually gets you noticed in a league full of guys trying to fill up a box score.
Against the Lakers he put up 15 points, four rebounds, three assists, two blocks and a steal in 29 minutes. He shot 5-of-8 from the floor, hit 1-of-2 from deep and went perfect from the stripe. Nothing flashy. Just solid, efficient basketball.
The Lakers couldn’t close
Los Angeles actually held a 66-63 lead heading into the fourth quarter. But Golden State outscored them 29-22 in the final frame and the Lakers couldn’t find answers down the stretch. It was a back-and-forth game most of the night, but the Warriors had more left in the tank when it mattered.
They got help from a few other guys too. Graham Ike finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds. LJ Cryer added 16 points and four assists. Chance McMillian chipped in 14 points and two boards. Malevy Leons gave them nine points and four rebounds. Four guys in double figures will win you most summer league games.
What’s next for Golden State
The Warriors now get a shot at the Summer League championship. They’ll face the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday at 9 p.m. ET. It’s the kind of opportunity these young guys are trying to build on heading into training camp. For Lendeborg, it’s another chance to prove the Warriors were right to grab him when they did.
He’s been the focal point of their summer squad and so far he’s delivered. Now there’s one more game to see what this rookie class can do.
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