Yaxel Lendeborg's Second-Half Heroics: A Glimpse of His True Potential | UM Hoops.com
The talented 6-foot-9 forward, Yaxel Lendeborg, was among the players on the No. 7 Michigan men's basketball team who struggled in the first half, scoring only five points on six shots in 15 minutes. This performance was a stark contrast to the dynamic, athletic shot-maker and play-creator that the Wolverines had envisioned when they recruited him. With a poor assist-to-turnover ratio and a 52-34 deficit at halftime, Michigan's performance was reminiscent of a team that had never played together.
However, Lendeborg's second-half explosion offered a glimpse of his true potential. Seeking guidance, he turned to Aaron Johnson, his trainer from UAB, who provided a much-needed reality check. Johnson's blunt advice, 'You're playing soft and should be dominating,' resonated with Lendeborg, who then took it upon himself to turn the game around.
In just a few plays, Lendeborg transformed from a relatively uninvolved player to the focal point of Michigan's offense. After a steal by junior point guard Elliot Cadeau, Lendeborg made his first 3-pointer of the second half, followed by consecutive and-one finishes as he drove to the rim. In less than three minutes, Lendeborg had scored nine of Michigan's 12 second-half points, cutting the deficit to 11.
Lendeborg's newfound confidence and aggression were attributed to his determination to attack and be more aggressive, utilizing his physical talents to make extra plays and secure extra points for the team. His performance served as a reminder that, when given the opportunity, Lendeborg has the potential to be a game-changer for Michigan.
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