From Stephen Curry Hater to Locker Neighbor
Lendeborg introduced himself with rare candor. He grew up in Ohio after his family moved from Puerto Rico when he was two years old and cheered for the Cleveland Cavaliers during their famous Finals battles with Golden State, even backing Kyrie Irving and, at the time, disliking Curry. He openly admitted his initial stance, saying, “In 2016, I’m a big Kyrie Irving guy. So I used to hate Steph Curry.” The remark quickly circulated on social media, but Curry responded with good-natured humor.
Curry’s playful comeback came on social media, inviting Lendeborg to the Bay Area and pledging to work hard to become his new favorite player. The exchange quickly became one of the week’s most wholesome moments.
Locker-Adjacent Education and Mutual Respect
Lendeborg noted that his opinion of Curry began to soften after attending the Warriors’ Play-In Tournament game against the Los Angeles Clippers in April, where he had the chance to meet the eventual Hall of Famer. “Now that I’m actually going to be able to be on the same team with him, play and actually learn so much from him, it means a lot,” Lendeborg said after the draft. “He’s a very great guy, genuine person. It’s going to be an honor to watch what he does in person.”
The new locker arrangement signals an immediate learning opportunity, with Lendeborg eager to absorb Curry’s approach and leadership.
Draymond Green’s Trash Talk
Lendeborg also teased Green, joking that he never was “too fond” of the longtime rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State, a nod to his college past. Green answered with his characteristic wit, posting a sharp reply on social media to an image Lendeborg shared of his championship ring from Michigan. Green quipped, highlighting the ongoing college rivalry and adding a defiant, “GO GREEN!!!!” toward the end. The banter was classic Green—competitive, playful, and rooted in one of college basketball’s fiercest battles.
NBA-Ready Talent Poised to Contribute
The Warriors drafted Lendeborg not only for potential but for immediate contribution. Widely regarded as one of the most NBA-ready prospects in the 2026 class, he brings a blend of rebounding, playmaking, defensive versatility, and maturity to a veteran roster aiming to maximize Curry’s championship window alongside fellow star players. The general manager emphasized a preference for players who can contribute right away, rather than long-term developmental projects, and Lendeborg fits that bill.
Rapid integration into the locker room has already begun. The rookie’s interactions with Curry and Green have quickly made him a fan favorite and positioned him to contribute from the start of his professional career.
Looking Ahead
Lendeborg’s early interactions suggest a promising fit with a veteran group that values toughness, work ethic, and leadership. While social media posts and lighthearted banter can define a rookie’s first week, the real measure will be on the court: his rebounding, defensive versatility, and playmaking ability, all of which are expected to help to accelerate the team’s chances to compete at a high level. If his pre-draft projections hold, Lendeborg could be an immediate contributor who learns rapidly from some of the league’s best players.
In the weeks and months ahead, Lendeborg will continue to acclimate to the Warriors’ system, culture, and expectations. For now, he has a clear offseason goal: develop a strong working relationship with Stephen Curry and translate their early camaraderie into impactful, winning basketball. This chapter promises to be as entertaining as it is foundational, with the rookie aiming to rise quickly within a championship-contending roster.
