Moments after Yaxel Lendeborg led the Golden State Warriors to an NBA Summer League Championship, the No.11 pick of the NBA Draft wasn’t shy to call out his opponent.
During his postgame presser, Lendeborg threw the Memphis Grizzlies under the bus and said they weren’t ready for the moment.
“Man, their butts got tight. They puckered up, you know what I mean?” Lendeborg said, “Some of us are built for the moment, and some aren’t.”
Yaxel Lendeborg doesn’t hesitate to say the Memphis Grizzlies aren’t built for the moment. Getty Images
Lendeborg was crowned the NBA Summer League Championship game’s MVP after leading the Warriors back from a 12-point deficit entering the fourth quarter. The Warriors eventually defeated the Grizzlies, 94-40.
The former Michigan Wolverine finished the game with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 steals, while putting up nine points in the fourth quarter to help wipe away the deficit. He out-dueled Memphis’ third overall pick, Cameron Boozer, who had 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Following Sunday’s championship game, Lendeborg said, “I’m just very proud of this moment. I’m glad we got to win this. For the Warriors, what a great way to start.”
Performing on the championship stage isn’t an unfamiliar sight for Lendeborg, who scored 13 points in Michigan’s win over UConn to win the National Championship. The New Jersey native was hobbled with an injury, but gutted it out to help the Wolverines win their second title.
Sunday’s Summer League MVP trophy is another one for Lendeborg to add to his trophy case as he was crowned the Big Ten’s Player of the Year last season.
Yaxel Lendeborg could be a crucial piece for the Golden State Warriors this season. NBAE via Getty Images
While Lendeborg has yet to play an official NBA game, he is continuing to show the Warriors why he can be a vital part of their success next season.
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