Arizona Western Men’s Basketball Coach says Lendeborg’s NBA Draft journey proves anything is possible

Matadors Head Basketball Coach Kyle Isaacs talks Lendeborg's impact on the program

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - As the 2026 NBA Draft approaches, Arizona Western College men's basketball coach Kyle Isaacs believes Yaxel Lendeborg's journey is about much more than hearing his name called.

For Isaacs, it's proof that a path to the NBA can begin in Yuma.

Lendeborg, who spent three seasons with the Matadors before transferring to UAB and later Michigan, is projected by many analysts to be selected in the first round of Wednesday's NBA Draft.

"It's great news for Arizona Western College. It's great news for the community of Yuma," Isaacs said. "One of our own is going to get to walk across that stage in New York City."

Isaacs said Lendeborg's success reinforces the message he shares with every player who joins the program.

"We always tell our guys it doesn't matter where you start, it matters where you finish," Isaacs said. "From here, it's possible."

Lendeborg's rise has also become a valuable recruiting tool for the Matadors. Isaacs said he now highlights Lendeborg's development at Arizona Western before his successful stops at UAB and Michigan during conversations with prospective student-athletes.

"Absolutely, it's a big process in us promoting Arizona Western College," Isaacs said.

While mock drafts have projected Lendeborg throughout the middle of the first round, Isaacs said he has spoken with representatives from nearly 20 NBA teams throughout the pre-draft process.

"I've probably spoken to roughly 17, 18, 19 NBA teams," Isaacs said. "There is a wide range. It's anywhere from nine to around 15 or 16 where they're kind of anticipating him to go."

Isaacs believes the skill that will translate best to the professional level is Lendeborg's relentless work on the glass.

"His ability to be one of the best rebounders that we've ever coached and in the college game," Isaacs said. "If he can continue to do the tough and gritty things that he had success doing here, at UAB and Michigan, there's no doubt in my mind that he'll be able to find time on the floor."

Beyond what it means for Lendeborg, Isaacs expects the entire Arizona Western basketball family to be watching the draft.

"Everybody knows about it," Isaacs said. "Everybody's talking about it. We're really excited about the opportunity that he's going to have, to be able to change his life, and excited about our opportunity to talk about it for our program as well."

For Isaacs, Lendeborg's story serves as an example of what hard work can accomplish.

"It just goes to show that it's possible," Isaacs said. "Starting here at Arizona Western College in Yuma, Arizona, coming all the way from Pennsauken, New Jersey. It just goes to show, work your tail off, and great things happen."