Max Strus is much more than just a successful NBA player—he is the perfect example of what hard work and passion can achieve.
I had the great pleasure of spending a moment with Max after the Heat vs. Cavs game last Thursday to find out what it is like for him to step back onto “his old home court” and what reaching his 600th career three-pointer means to him.
In addition, Max founded the “Max Strus Family Foundation,” which he runs together with his family to strengthen communities by supporting local initiatives in education, youth sports, healthcare, cancer research, and mental health.
Last Monday in Cleveland, the “Bowl in the Land” event took place, where Max Strus and his teammates went bowling with fans to raise funds for charitable causes.
“I founded the Foundation in the name of me and my family—simply to give back to the communities in which I play or have played. Whether it’s Chicago, Miami, or now Cleveland— it’s about reaching out, being accessible to everyone, and promoting the greater good in all communities.
I’ve always wanted to do this. I’ve always loved giving back. My mother worked at the YMCA when we were younger, and that’s why it feels like a part of my youth to me.”
It always makes me so happy to see, when players use their influence to launch such projects and be strong role models. For so many children out there, Max‘s life story is a strong and beautiful inspiration.
Max Strus was born on March 28, 1996, in Hickory Hills, Illinois, and grew up in a family that sticks together closely—a family where sports and team spirit are of central importance. His parents, John and Debra Strus, were successful athletes themselves.
Debra Strus played basketball and volleyball, and John Strus, his father, also actively played basketball. Max has two older siblings—Marty and his sister Maggie. Marty played basketball for four years at Lewis University, and Maggie was a college volleyball player at the University of Illinois in Chicago.
Max initially chose Lewis College, where he played for two years in Division II. Due to his strong performances, he eventually transferred to DePaul University. However, his jump to professional basketball did not come through the traditional NBA Draft route, as he went undrafted in 2019.
But the Chicago Bulls took notice of him and offered him a 2-Way Contract. During his time with the Chicago Bulls’ G-League team, he suffered an ACL tear on December 21, 2019. This marked the end of his season, after which he was waived by the Bulls.
After his recovery, the Miami Heat offered him a two-way deal. Max managed to prove himself with the Heat and became an important part of the Heat-Culture family. After three years in Miami and reaching the Finals in the 2022/23 season, the Cleveland Cavaliers acquired Max to strengthen their offense.
I had the opportunity to ask coach Erik Spoelstra a question about Max last Thursday after the game.
Aurelia Rieke:
“Hey Coach, this is the first game this season in which you see Max playing. Can you tell us something about his development and what you saw on the court today—especially considering that he has now reached the 600 three-pointer mark?”Erik Spoelstra:
“From the very beginning, he established himself. I love stories like Max’s—someone who has to fight against unusual adversity to pursue his dream. I just love that.
That’s why I really respected him. I was always drawn to Max. He has a toughness, he’s a great competitor. He was a D2 guy that had to work his way through DePaul, and then the G League, then dealing with an injury. That’s a lot of fortitude. It’s just a great story. He’s earned everything he’s gotten.”
Regarding his return to the court in the environment where he experienced so many great moments, I was able to ask Max a few more questions.
Aurelia Rieke: “Looking at your journey—someone who first played in the G-League, was waived due to an injury, then got the opportunity with Miami, and now plays for a team contending for the championship—what emotions do you experience when you step onto the court here, where you were at home for three years?”
MS: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Heat—no doubt about it. I loved my time here, with my guys in the locker room. It’s always wonderful to see old family members. I fought alongside my teammates, achieved success—it’s something that will never be forgotten. It will always be a part of my story. These moments must be celebrated.”
Aurelia Rieke: “Which matchup are you most excited about? Is there someone in particular?”
MS: “I’m excited about all of them. I wish Jimmy would play, but yes—it’s all my guys. I’m especially looking forward to facing Bam. Bam and I are still very close friends.”
Aurelia Rieke: “What is the biggest difference you notice between the Heat culture and the current environment with the Cavaliers? What has surprised you the most?”
MS: “I mean, it’s similar—both teams fight for the same dream: to win the championship. Here with the Cavaliers, it essentially comes down to the same mentality, the same determination, and the same team unity.”
Aurelia Rieke: “Now that you’ve reached the 600 three-pointer mark—without knowing where your career would lead—what is your next goal? Do you set any specific personal targets?”
MS: “No, I’m focused on winning a championship. That is literally the only thing on my mind. Personal accolades don’t interest me as long as the team wins and I contribute my part. I simply want to help lead this team to success at the highest level and win a championship.”
Aurelia Rieke: “When you look back—from the moment you started in the NBA until today—what has changed the most in your game?”
MS: “That’s a good question. I think what has changed the most is my ability to read the game and have a real impact as a defender. In the past, I was often criticized for not having enough physical presence to stop someone. But I worked on that and improved my skills at the end of the court. Now I know when I need to be more aggressive and when it is wiser to fall into the defensive rhythm of the game. It’s a continuous learning process—every year I try to learn something new to get even better.”
Aurelia Rieke: “Do you believe that the key to success lies in continuously evolving, always learning something new, and never being satisfied with what you have already achieved?”
MS: “Yes, you try to learn and try to be the best you can be every year.
Every year you learn something new—whether it’s from younger players, experienced veterans, or simply from the game itself. The longer you play, the more you end up taking on the role of a teacher yourself. You try to keep extending your career. Continuously learning, improving, and ultimately helping others become better.”
What we spoke about in the interview—about his team, their unity, and his mentality—also reflects his behavior off the court.
Another important aspect of his commitment is his basketball camp. In July 2022, Max Strus organized a youth basketball camp at Stagg High School—his former school. With over 250 young participants, the four-day camp not only provided the opportunity to learn basketball techniques but also promoted values such as team spirit, discipline, and unity.
The funds raised went to the Andrew Weishar Foundation, which provides financial support to children suffering from cancer. This commitment underscores how much it means to Max to do good and help others, even off the court.
