Yaxel Lendeborg introduces himself to the Warriors: “I used to hate Steph Curry”

The NBA has a way of creating some truly unique stories. Just ask Yaxel Lendeborg, who was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 11th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. The franchise’s newest big man recently admitted something that left plenty of fans smiling: as a teenager, he was not a fan of Steph Curry.

Back in 2016, when the Warriors and Cavaliers were battling in the NBA Finals and the rivalry was dividing basketball fans around the world, Lendeborg was just 13 years old – and firmly on Cleveland’s side.

I’ve always been a huge fan of Kyrie Irving. Because of that, I hated Steph Curry

Yaxel Lendeborg

Ten years later, the situation could not be more different. Today, Lendeborg finds himself sharing a locker room with the very player he used to root against.

It’s an incredible situation. Now I’ll have the opportunity to play on his team, learn from him, and see everything he does up close. It means a lot to me. He’s a genuine person, and it will be an honor to learn from him

Yaxel Lendeborg

Meeting Curry and a joke about Draymond Green

The relationship between the two has already begun. Lendeborg first met Curry during the Warriors’ Play-In Tournament game against the Clippers in April and had another opportunity to speak with him during a pre-draft workout organized by Golden State in the days leading up to the draft.

The rookie’s excitement is not limited to Curry. He is also looking forward to sharing the court with Draymond Green, although he could not resist taking a playful jab.

I know he went to Michigan State, and I don’t like that very much. But I can’t wait to meet him and learn everything I can

Yaxel Lendeborg

Age is not a concern for Golden State

According to general manager Mike Dunleavy, the Warriors began seriously considering Lendeborg after the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago. The growth he displayed over the last year, both in terms of skill development and maturity, convinced the organization.

One of the most discussed topics surrounding Lendeborg is his age. He will turn 24 before playing his first NBA game, a factor that often leads teams to prioritize younger prospects.

Dunleavy, however, is completely unfazed.

He’s 23, almost 24? I’m not worried. He’s not 38

Mike Dunleavy

The joke perfectly captures the current reality of the Warriors. The team’s veteran core remains one of the oldest in the league, with Curry approaching 38 years old and Green nearing 36.

Why the Warriors chose Yaxel Lendeborg

Golden State also evaluated other options, including Arizona guard Brayden Burries, who ultimately went to the Milwaukee Bucks with the 10th pick. Once Burries was off the board, several teams called about potential trade scenarios, but the Warriors remained committed to their plan.

Their belief was simple: Lendeborg is one of the most NBA-ready prospects in the class.

Dunleavy highlighted his versatility above all else.

He’s a good passer, he defends both on and off the ball. His size allows him to connect different lineups. He can play inside and away from the basket

Mike Dunleavy

Those qualities could make him an immediate contributor as early as next season, especially for a team in need of energy, physicality, and players capable of making an impact right away.

After spending years rooting against Steph Curry, Yaxel Lendeborg now finds himself in the opposite position: learning from the player he once “hated”. It’s one of those fascinating twists of fate that only the NBA can deliver.