Lendeborg Targets Doncic in His First Game

Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg came face to face with Luka Doncic in his first NBA game. Taking the court on Wednesday night, the 24-year-old first-round pick did not back down against Doncic, the league's most recent scoring champion.

In the second quarter the two players traded words. Lendeborg received a technical foul for something he said loudly and with profanity. At the end of the half, Doncic hit an impressive shot from half court right in front of the rookie. The Los Angeles Lakers won the game 127 to 105. Doncic scored 28 points in three quarters.

Speaking after the game, Lendeborg said he had lost his respect for Doncic. He accused the six-time All-Star from Slovenia of complaining too much, lying on the floor to draw fouls and appealing to the referee. He said that what angered him was not the foul call but Doncic's complaining throughout the game.

Lendeborg, who won the NCAA title with Michigan last season, also added that he enjoys watching Doncic's scoring performances. Doncic, for his part, mostly responded to the provocations with laughter. The Lakers star had received 16 technical fouls last season and was suspended for one game for exceeding the season limit.