Mark Pope and Staff to Hold Second Meeting with Top Transfer Yaxel Lendeborg
The University of Kentucky’s basketball program, led by head coach Mark Pope, is set to hold a second meeting with Yaxel Lendeborg, a highly sought-after transfer from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). This follow-up meeting signals Kentucky’s strong interest in acquiring Lendeborg, a talented forward whose skills could significantly bolster the Wildcats’ roster for the upcoming season.
Lendeborg’s Performance and Potential Impact
Standing at 6’9” and weighing 240 pounds, Lendeborg has established himself as one of the most dominant forwards in college basketball. His performance during the 2024-2025 season at UAB was nothing short of exceptional, as he averaged:
- 17.7 points per game
- 11.4 rebounds per game
- 4.2 assists per game
- 1.8 blocks per game
- 1.7 steals per game
Lendeborg’s versatility is further emphasized by his shooting efficiency, boasting a field goal percentage of 52.2%, a three-point shooting percentage of 35.7%, and a free-throw percentage of 75.7%. His ability to score, defend, and facilitate makes him an invaluable asset for any team looking to strengthen its frontcourt.
Kentucky’s Recruitment Efforts
Kentucky’s aggressive pursuit of Lendeborg suggests they see him as a key piece to their future success. The coaching staff’s decision to schedule a second meeting highlights their commitment to making him feel like a top priority. This move is particularly strategic given the competition from other major programs seeking his commitment.
Reports indicate that Kentucky is among the frontrunners for Lendeborg’s services. A decision could come as early as this weekend, and securing him would be a significant win for Mark Pope in his first offseason as the Wildcats’ head coach.
NBA Draft Considerations
In addition to being a top transfer target, Lendeborg has also declared for the NBA Draft. While he is currently testing the waters, it remains uncertain whether he will remain in the draft or return to college for another season. If he commits to Kentucky, it would indicate that he sees value in further development at the collegiate level before making the leap to professional basketball.
For Kentucky, landing Lendeborg would not only enhance their competitiveness but also serve as a testament to Pope’s ability to attract top-tier talent. This could set a precedent for future recruitment efforts and solidify the Wildcats as a dominant force in the transfer portal era.
Final Thoughts
With the transfer market becoming increasingly competitive, Kentucky’s persistent approach toward Lendeborg demonstrates the program’s dedication to assembling a championship-caliber team. The upcoming meeting will be pivotal in determining Lendeborg’s next steps, and the college basketball world will be watching closely.
If the Wildcats successfully secure his commitment, they will have landed one of the most impactful transfers of the offseason—a move that could shape the team’s trajectory for the upcoming season and beyond.
