Warriors Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg Refuses to Hide His True Feelings as He Makes His Stance on Media Training Clear

Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg has wasted no time showcasing his exceptional personality on and off the court. From claiming he’ll give Dillon Brooks a “belt” to trading trash talk with Luka Doncic, the 24-year-old is as feisty with his words as he is headstrong on the court. Apparently, not even the NBA’s media training can deter Lendeborg. Speaking to Luca Evans of the San Francisco Chronicle , the Warriors forward said that he plans to maintain his authenticity during media availability sessions. “I’m not doing that, man. I’m going to stay true to myself, and be honest. I’ve seen plenty of interviews where people are talking and it’s like, ‘Man, I don’t want to watch this,’ you know what I mean? And it’s not like I’m click-baiting or click-farming or whatever the heck people are saying. But it’s like, that’s honestly how I feel. And I’m not gonna lie about it. I’ve never been a liar. So, just tell the truth.” Under the NBA’s latest collective bargaining agreement (CBA) , all players must “attend and participate in one (1) media training session conducted by their Team and/or the NBA.” If Lendeborg pushes through with his plan to forgo the compulsory media training, he’ll have to pay a $20,000 fine under the CBA. From the looks of it, Lendeborg is willing to pay that price. “I Am a Fan of This Brother”: Stephen A. Smith Hails Yaxel Lendeborg for Prolific Work on Both Ends of the Floor This early, Yaxel Lendeborg has made Stephen A. Smith a believer. On Friday’s episode of “First Take,” Smith raved over Lendeborg’s contributions to the Warriors. “I want to state this for the record right here on national television right now. I am a fan of this brother Yaxel Lendeborg… In his first five games, he’s averaging over 22 a game…The brother can ball, and oh by the way, he defends.” For a Warriors squad that has long struggled to develop young talent, Lendeborg has stood out as a potential future pillar. With Steph Curry and Draymond Green playing in the twilight of their careers, Lendeborg is a promising athlete who can become part of Golden State’s core for years to come. “Luka Doncic Giving Him The Loudest 50 Ever”: NBA Fans Warn Yaxel Lendeborg After Warriors Rookie Looks Forward to Matchup With Lakers Superstar Warriors Fans Float Trade Scenarios for Pelicans Duo as Steph Curry Title Window Could Get Major Boost Amid Latest Report College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football , men’s college basketball , women’s college basketball , and college baseball !