Warriors pick Yaxel Lendeborg No. 11 in 2026 NBA Draft

The Golden State Warriors selected Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg with the 11th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft on Tuesday, June 23. The move adds an experienced, versatile player to a roster aiming to maximize the final years of Stephen Curry's career.

Lendeborg, a 6-foot-9 forward who will turn 24 in September, is considered one of the most NBA-ready prospects in the draft. He arrives after a decorated final collegiate season, having led Michigan to a national championship while averaging 15.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game. His performance earned him Big Ten Player of the Year honors and consensus First-Team All-American status.

The Warriors, who finished last season with a 37-45 record and missed the playoffs, are in a clear win-now mode centered on Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. Team officials indicated in the lead-up to the draft that they were seeking a player who could contribute immediately, and Lendeborg's skill set aligns with that goal. He is noted for his defensive versatility, a 7-foot-4 wingspan, and an efficient all-around offensive game, including a 37.2 percent three-point shooting mark last season. He is...