Lendeborg's Ankle Test: Michigan's Star Forward "Will Give It a Go" Against UConn Monday Night

Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg is banged up, but he's playing in the national title game. Coach Dusty May said so after Saturday's Elite Eight win over Arizona, and Lendeborg himself made it clear he's doing everything humanly possible to suit up Monday night against UConn in Indianapolis.

The Injury and the Comeback

Lendeborg sprained his left MCL and left ankle in the first half against Arizona on Saturday, forcing him to spend much of the opening 20 minutes getting treatment in the locker room. He played just 14 minutes total before halftime. But here's the thing: he came back out for the second half, gutted out nine more minutes, and still managed to drain a pair of 3-pointers on his way to 11 points on four shots.

"He played the second half like a 38-year-old at the YMCA," May said with a smile. "And a really good 38-year-old at the YMCA."

Ready to Roll, Medical Staff Confident

May said the final call rests with Lendeborg and Michigan's medical staff, but the trainers have already indicated they expect him to be available. "I'm sure he'll give it a go tomorrow," May said after the Arizona game.

Michigan trainer Chris Williams told ESPN that intense rehab starts immediately. "He might move into my room," Williams said. "You're laughing, but he might move into my room. We have two beds in there, so we might have to find another room for my wife and my son."

Lendeborg made his intentions crystal clear Saturday night: he's playing in the championship game. The question now is how close to 100 percent he can get in 48 hours. Monday night against UConn will tell you everything you need to know.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.