The Kentucky Wildcats are making aggressive moves to secure one of the top talents available in the transfer portal. UAB’s Yaxel Lendeborg has captured the attention of several high-profile programs, with Kentucky being among the first to express interest. As one of the most dominant transfers on the market, his next destination is set to be a major storyline in college basketball.
A Path from JUCO to Elite Transfer Status
Lendeborg’s rise to prominence has been anything but conventional. The 6-foot-9, 240-pound forward from New Jersey was overlooked by major programs out of high school, leading him to the junior college circuit. At Arizona Western, he proved himself by earning consecutive NJCAA All-American honors and two ACCAC Player of the Year awards, which paved the way for his transition to UAB.
His debut season with the Blazers was a strong one, as he averaged 13.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game. However, it was the 2024-25 season that truly set him apart. Lendeborg played all 37 games, putting up 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 52.2% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range.
His defensive impact was undeniable, earning him the American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year award for the second consecutive season. Additionally, his 26 double-doubles led the nation, and he set a new UAB record with 420 rebounds in a single season, further proving his dominance.
Kentucky Battles Stiff Competition
Lendeborg’s name has attracted some of the biggest programs in the country. According to Joe Tipton of On3, Kentucky is just one of many schools looking to land him, with Arkansas, Auburn, Michigan, Alabama, BYU, Ole Miss, Georgetown, and Memphis also in the mix. Given his size, skill set, and two-way abilities, it’s no surprise that top-tier programs are vying for his commitment.
However, there’s another factor at play—Lendeborg is testing the waters of the NBA Draft. Current projections have him as a second-round pick, but strong performances in workouts and interviews could boost his stock into the first round. If that happens, college recruiters may have to shift their focus elsewhere.
Can Kentucky Secure His Commitment?
The Wildcats have several advantages working in their favor. Under new head coach Mark Pope, Kentucky presents an exciting system that could maximize Lendeborg’s talents. Additionally, the program’s NIL opportunities could play a crucial role in his decision-making process.
Still, with fierce competition from elite programs—and the potential of an NBA future—Kentucky has a tough battle ahead. Lendeborg holds all the leverage, and his choice will likely come down to where he sees the best long-term fit.
Will he choose Lexington, or will another school—or the NBA—win him over? The answer should come in the weeks ahead.
