Yaxel Lendeborg, the Golden State Warriors’ first-round pick, has demonstrated a fearless approach to speaking his mind.
When queried about his anticipation for the upcoming game against Dillon Brooks of the Phoenix Suns, Lendeborg, selected 11th overall, responded without reservation.
On a Kick stream, he stated, “I’m going to give Dillon Brooks the belt.”
Dillon Brooks is widely regarded as one of the league’s more controversial figures, known for his aggressive playstyle and verbal jabs. However, Lendeborg’s past criticisms extend beyond Brooks.
Following his selection in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, Lendeborg candidly admitted that he once harbored dislike for Steph Curry.
“It’s a full-circle moment for me. I’ve been saying this every time I get asked this question. In 2016, I’m a big Kyrie guy, so I used to hate Steph Curry,” Lendeborg said. “So now that I’m actually going to be on the same team as him, play and actually learn so much from him, it means a lot.”
These remarks about Brooks are part of Lendeborg’s pattern of outspokenness.
Nevertheless, Lendeborg will face a true test when the Warriors clash with the Suns on October 24, needing to match up against Brooks’ tenacious defense.
Prior to this, Lendeborg impressed coach Steve Kerr by captaining the G-League team to an NBA summer league title, averaging 21 points and 10 rebounds in the final game.
As the Warriors navigate the twilight of Steph Curry’s career, concerns linger about the organization maximizing these final years. Despite interest in high-profile free agents like LeBron James, the team has yet to make a significant signing this offseason.
Nonetheless, Lendeborg is poised to play a crucial role for Curry and the Warriors this season.
