Former Michigan Wolverines teammates Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr. competed against each other during the 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas [1, 2].

The matchup highlights the transition of two high-profile collegiate stars into the professional ranks. As rookies for the Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks, the pair are now rivals in a league where they once shared a championship goal.

Lendeborg, playing for the Warriors, recorded 21 points [1] and 10 rebounds [1] during the contest. Johnson Jr., the No. 9 overall pick [5], led the scoring between the two former teammates with 27 points [1] and eight rebounds [1] for the Mavericks.

Following the game, the two athletes appeared on SportsCenter to discuss the dynamic of playing against a former teammate. They spoke about their shared experience winning an NCAA championship at Michigan and how those collegiate bonds translate to the professional stage, a transition that often defines the early trajectory of rookie players.

Johnson Jr. entered the league with significant expectations after his draft position [5]. The Summer League serves as the primary evaluation period for these prospects to prove their fit within their respective NBA rotations before the regular season begins.

Lendeborg and Johnson Jr. used the platform to reflect on their shared history. The rivalry on the court appeared to be tempered by the camaraderie developed during their time in college, though both players sought to establish their individual dominance in the Las Vegas slate [1, 2].

“Lendeborg recorded 21 points and 10 rebounds during the contest.”

This matchup serves as a benchmark for two players who have already achieved the highest level of success in collegiate basketball. Their ability to translate NCAA championship experience into professional production is a key indicator for the Warriors and Mavericks as they evaluate their 2026 rookie classes.