UAB Basketball Reloads: Blazers Land Key Recruits After Leadership Exodus

The UAB Blazers lost two of their most productive players from a 24-13 squad that finished 13-5 in American Athletic Conference play. Lendeborg, who averaged 17.7 points and 11.4 rebounds, and Coleman, who contributed 11.6 points and 7.1 rebounds, depart after helping establish UAB as a national scoring powerhouse. Last season, the Blazers ranked 18th nationally in scoring offense at 82.2 points per game while leading the conference in that category. To fill the void, UAB's coaching staff brought in Lance Carr and Justin Holloway as forwards, along with guards Salim London and Jorden Pittman. These four recruits form the backbone of UAB's 2025-2026 recruiting class and represent the program's commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in a talent-rich conference. The additions signal confidence in UAB's ability to compete for postseason play after last season's strong showing. The Blazers enter the 2025-2026 season ranked 132nd nationally and seventh in the American Athletic Conference, according to preseason evaluations. That ranking reflects the challenge ahead: replacing the production and leadership of Lendeborg and Coleman while integrating new talent. Birmingham's program has built a reputation for strong defense and efficient scoring, elements that the incoming class will be expected to maintain. UAB's recruiting efforts come at a critical moment for the program. The Blazers allowed 76.2 points per game last season while ranking 11th in conference scoring defense, establishing a foundation built on both ends of the floor. Whether this year's recruiting class can replicate that balanced excellence will largely determine whether UAB can sustain its position as a legitimate American Athletic Conference contender heading into the 2026-2027 campaign.