Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg faces conditioning challenges in Summer League

First‑round pick Yaxel Lendeborg, selected No. 11 overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 2026 NBA Draft, has spoken openly about the difficulty of adjusting to the professional game. The former Michigan standout said he is trying to change his sleep and diet, but "it's not working, man," adding that a recent extended break may have left him unusually winded.

In the Las Vegas Summer League, Lendeborg has shown promise, averaging 16.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 4.5 assists while shooting 52.3 % from the field and 61.9 % from three‑point range. In the Warriors' opening game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, he recorded 21 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, helping Golden State start the tournament 1‑0.

The lineup also featured LJ Cryer, Will Richard, Malevy Leons and Graham Ike, while the Thunder fielded No. 12 pick Aday Mara. Both teams look to continue developing their rookies as the summer competition progresses.