Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg tops Final Four starter rankings

Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg has been named the top starting player ahead of the men’s college basketball Final Four in Indianapolis.

The 20 projected starters for Arizona, Michigan, UConn and Illinois feature a balanced mix of seasoned veterans, former transfers and promising freshmen.

Only six first-year players make the starting line-ups across the four semi-finalists, with half of those representing the Wildcats.

Lendeborg leads the pack

The first-team All-American has been a dominant force for the Wolverines during the NCAA tournament, earning Most Outstanding Player honours in the Midwest Region.

The former UAB standout averaged 25 points, 8.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists over his past three tournament appearances.

His versatility has created match-up nightmares for opponents, transitioning seamlessly from a traditional centre role to a dynamic small forward.

Wagler and Reed shine under pressure

Illinois freshman Keaton Wagler claimed the second spot after a string of spectacular performances helped secure his team’s first Final Four appearance in 21 years.

The 6-foot-5 guard previously stepped up with a massive 46-point display against Purdue when team-mate Kylan Boswell suffered a hand injury.

UConn’s Tarris Reed Jr completes the top three following a historically dominant run in the Big Dance.

The Huskies centre became just the third player since 1960 to record at least 30 points and 25 rebounds in an NCAA tournament game during their opener against Furman.

He also single-handedly kept his team alive during a dramatic Elite Eight comeback against Duke, contributing 26 points.

Road to the championship

The semi-final stage will see Arizona clash with Michigan, while Illinois face defending national champions UConn.

Half of the 20 starting players taking to the court in Indianapolis are already projected as lottery picks in the upcoming NBA draft.