What Lendeborg Forgoing the NBA Draft Means for Mississippi State: A Deep Dive into Roster Impact, Team Dynamics, and Tournament Aspirations for 2025
In a college basketball era where players often bolt for the NBA at the first sign of draft buzz, Jimmy Lendeborg’s decision to forgo the 2025 NBA Draft and return to Mississippi State is both rare and significant. For the Bulldogs, it’s not just about retaining a star player — it’s about preserving the heartbeat of a team that is poised to make a serious postseason run.
Lendeborg was one of the standout performers for Mississippi State during the 2024 season. His versatility in the frontcourt, ability to stretch the floor, and leadership presence made him a cornerstone of Chris Jans’ system. Averaging double figures in scoring while also contributing on the boards and as a rim protector, Lendeborg had attracted legitimate NBA interest. But by choosing to stay, he sends a clear message: he believes in this program and wants to finish what he started.
From a roster standpoint, Lendeborg’s return immediately elevates Mississippi State into serious contention within the SEC. His experience and talent bring stability to the lineup, especially as younger players continue to develop. His presence allows Coach Jans to deploy a more versatile lineup, creating mismatches with his ability to guard multiple positions and operate both inside and out. His return also eases pressure on underclassmen and transfers, giving the Bulldogs a proven leader who can shoulder key moments and set the tone on both ends of the floor.
Team dynamics are equally affected by Lendeborg’s decision. In a locker room full of emerging talent, having a veteran who has faced elite SEC competition and understands the grind of a full season is invaluable. He sets the standard in practice, brings a competitive edge, and acts as a bridge between the coaching staff and the younger core. This kind of leadership is hard to quantify, but it often becomes the difference between a good team and a great one.
Beyond the Xs and Os, Lendeborg’s choice keeps Mississippi State firmly in the national conversation heading into the 2025 season. Preseason rankings and projections will take notice, and the Bulldogs could start the year as a top-25 team. With the SEC becoming increasingly competitive, every edge counts — and retaining a player of Lendeborg’s caliber provides MSU with a substantial one. His return also offers a recruiting boost, signaling to future players that Mississippi State is a place where development, loyalty, and success can coexist.
Tournament aspirations are now very real. With Lendeborg anchoring the lineup, Mississippi State has the tools to not only return to the NCAA Tournament but also to make a deeper run. In a March Madness landscape often defined by experience and chemistry, the Bulldogs suddenly check all the boxes.
In short, Jimmy Lendeborg’s decision to stay is more than a personal choice — it’s a program-altering moment that could define Mississippi State’s basketball identity in 2025 and beyond.
