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Warriors Draft Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg, Curry Welcomes Him

6/26/2026

48 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Lendeborg Meets Curry

The U.S. Golden State Warriors selected former Michigan star Yaxel Lendeborg with the No. 11 pick in the 2026 NBA draft.
Lendeborg said he once hated Stephen Curry because he was a Kyrie Irving fan in 2016.
Lendeborg met Curry at the Warriors-Clippers play-in game in April, which changed his view.
Curry responded, “Let’s go! Welcome to the Bay! I’ll work hard to be your new favorite player.”

Summary

Lendeborg Cuts Green

Lendeborg lets the Warriors cut Draymond Green’s minutes after his 1,983-minute 2024-25 and 1,869-minute 2025-26 seasons.
Green must decide on his $27.7 million option by June 29, a year that could end his stay.
The move creates a starter battle with Gui Santos for the slot when Moses Moody returns.
GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. said Lendeborg’s play frees cap space, prompting trade rumors that Jimmy Butler could be exchanged for Kawhi Leonard.

Summary

Curry Dominates

Steph Curry, 38, dominated Lendeborg’s pre-draft workout, proving he still leads on the court.
They shook hands at the Warriors’ NBA play-in game against the Los Angeles Clippers in April, ending their rivalry.
Lendeborg called the hatred “ancient history now,” showing his attitude softened after meeting Steph Curry.
Steph Curry’s playful welcome of Lendeborg was featured on the Dubs Talk Podcast, urging listeners to download the show.

History

Historical Context

In 2009 the Warriors used the seventh overall pick to select Stephen Curry, beginning a rebuild that later embraced small-ball and youth after the 2012 draft added Harrison Barnes and Draymond Green. The 2026 selection of Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg at No. 11 and the reduction of Green’s minutes by GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. echo that same strategy, freeing cap space for future stars.

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Lendeborg Meets Curry

The U.S. Golden State Warriors selected former Michigan star Yaxel Lendeborg with the No. 11 pick in the 2026 NBA draft.
Lendeborg said he once hated Stephen Curry because he was a Kyrie Irving fan in 2016.
Lendeborg met Curry at the Warriors-Clippers play-in game in April, which changed his view.
Curry responded, “Let’s go! Welcome to the Bay! I’ll work hard to be your new favorite player.”

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