Photo: Golden State Warriors/YouTube

Golden State Warriors lottery pick Yaxel Lendeborg has quickly made an impression with his versatile game and energetic personality, but his first Summer League experience carried more emotion than he expected.

Before making his debut in Las Vegas, the player admitted he nearly broke down while traveling with his new teammates.

“When we were going to the game in Vegas, I was about to cry on the bus,” Lendeborg said.

“… Three or four tears kind of like dripped from the eye, but I was on a bus with a bunch of guys. They don’t even know me. They barely know me, so I can’t just be crying for no reason.”

The moment reflected the long road Lendeborg traveled before reaching the NBA.

His unconventional basketball journey eventually took him to Michigan, where he won a national championship before becoming a Warriors lottery selection.

The 23-year-old continued his rise by earning Summer League MVP honors, strengthening his case for a meaningful role with Golden State.

Despite his accomplishments and confident image on the court, Lendeborg said self-belief has not always come naturally.

“I’ve never been a confident kid. So, actually having this time to believe in myself – it means a lot to me, and I’m trying my best to not lose that no matter what goes on,” he said.

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