Lendeborg to Play in Title Game Despite Sprains
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- Yaxel Lendeborg said he "absolutely" plans to play in the national title game against UConn on Monday night.
- Chris Williams reported that an MRI showed a "very clear" low‑grade MCL sprain with a small bone bruise and a low‑grade ankle sprain with minimal swelling.
- Dusty May said the decision to play will be up to Lendeborg and the medical staff, and expressed confidence he will be available.
- Lendeborg played 14 minutes against Arizona, spent much of the first half being treated, and returned in the second half wearing a compression sleeve, scoring 11 points on four shots.
- Chris Williams said he will stay in Lendeborg's room around the clock, using a Hivamat machine and a Class 4 laser for treatment, and may even share a bed with him.
- Lendeborg was not listed on the Sunday night availability report, but the trainer described him as "tender" and walking gingerly.
Why it matters: Michigan regains a scoring threat, preserving its championship odds, while UConn loses the chance to exploit a weakened opponent; Lendeborg’s swift clearance and intensive rehab illustrate the high stakes of player health in title‑game planning. The trainer’s round‑the‑clock care, including laser therapy and a Hivamat machine, underscores the resources teams will deploy to keep star athletes on the floor.
