Golden State Warriors forward Yaxel Lendeborg chose the perfect game to deliver his breakout performance.
Lendeborg exploded for 31 points to lead the Warriors past the Denver Nuggets, 134-114, at Ball Arena on Monday. He added 12 rebounds and six assists, finally notching his first win in the NBA after Golden State's 0-3 start.
The 25-year-old rookie was not awestruck despite playing against Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and DeMar DeRozan. In the video shared by ESPN's Anthony Slater, Lendeborg said he was giddy to meet them, especially DeRozan.
“I just met DeMar DeRozan. I was talking with him for a little while. Jamal Murray, Jokic. It's crazy. I just see these guys on TV all the time. But seeing these guys in person, talking to them, they're telling me, ‘Keep hooping,' and ‘Congratulations.' It doesn't feel real for me. It's definitely like a wild moment for me all the time,” said the outspoken forward.
“I actually played with DeMar DeRozan on (NBA) 2K all the time. That's kind of where my passion for seeing him came from.”
Yaxel Lendeborg said he is “absolutely” surprising himself with his early stat lines
Here is some postgame sound including a reflection on his interactions with DeMar DeRozan pic.twitter.com/MDeLQct41R
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) October 27, 2026
Lendeborg, the No. 11 pick, admitted that having the opportunity to meet his childhood heroes makes him emotional. He, however, added that he cannot be “too ecstatic” about it, especially since he is now competing against them.
Article Continues BelowLendeborg joined Victor Wembanyama as the only rookies in league history to register at least 30 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists in under 31 minutes of action.
He is averaging 21.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.0 steals.
Golden State will visit the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday.