The Michigan Wolverines put on a show Saturday night to take down the Arizona Wildcats and advance to the national championship. But in the first half, Michigan star Yaxel Lendeborg suffered a mild MCL sprain and a tweaked ankle.
In multiple post-game interviews, he made it clear that he’s going to play in Monday’s national championship against the UConn Huskies.
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“Coach said at worst, it’s an MCL sprain and then I also rolled my ankle,” Lendeborg said right after the win. “I’m going to push through. There’s no way I’m missing the game on Monday. No matter what goes on. I’m going to play unless I can’t walk at all.”
The injury occurred in the first half when Lendeborg was driving to the basket. His left foot landed on his defender’s foot, causing his ankle to roll and his knee to hyperextend.
In a separate interview, he reiterated that he intends to be in the lineup on Monday.
“I was definitely scared, I’ve never had a knee injury before. … I’ll be alright you know, I’m a warrior in my mind so I’m playing Monday night, no matter what.”
In the limited minutes he did play on Saturday, Lendeborg put up points quickly. He poured in 11 points in just 12 minutes of action.
Lendeborg has been a crucial part of Michigan’s success throughout this tournament. Barring any bad injury news, it appears he’ll be on the floor for Monday night’s national championship showdown.
James Parker contributed to this story.
