By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
Pennsauken native and PHS grad Yaxel Lendeborg is headed to the NBA. The Michigan standout who helped the Wolverines win the NCAA men’s basketball title in April, was selected 11th overall by the Golden State Warriors.
During his draft night interview with ESPN, Lendeborg, a member of Pennsauken High School’s Class of 2020, shared how humbling it was to be at this moment.
“I didn’t have the traditional path, I’m truly unworthy,” said Lendeborg, who was the 2026 Big 10 Player of the Year and a 2026 First Team All American.
Yaxel’s mother, Yissel, has played a significant role in his success on the court and in the classroom.
“She pushed a dream, forced me to go out there and step into the world and become a man,” said Yaxel, who wrote an article entitled, “How My Mom Saved My Life,” for The Players’ Tribune, an online platform for athletes to connect with their fans. “I had no choice but to go out there and do the best I could. So I vowed every day to be a better man, be a better person, and just do the best I can for her.”
“I’m so blessed. It’s a dream come true for us, for Jaxel,” said Yissel, who is currently battling appendix cancer. “He deserves it, because he sacrificed a lot.”
“She’s put her whole life on hold for my life,” added Yaxel. “I’m super proud of her for fighting so hard and I’m glad we get to share this moment together.”
