To keep pushing forward even in the face of adversity is a true sign of greatness, and that is exactly what Max Strus’ basketball journey embodies. Born in the Chicago suburb of Hickory Hills, Illinois, Strus was greatly influenced by his parents, who themselves were distinguished athletes. John and Debra Strus made sure that sport formed a big part of their three children’s upbringing and encouraged them to stay outdoors. They knew the importance of having a healthy and active lifestyle and strongly believed that this was possible only through sport.

From an early age, Strus was involved with both baseball and basketball while at Amos Alonzo Stagg High School. However, it is on the hardwood that he would make his mark. As a 6’5″ senior, he averaged 19 points and 9 rebounds while being named Regional Reporter Player of the year. He also earned IBCA All-State Third Team and All-Southwest Suburban Conference honors to round out an incredible career with the Chargers.

His time at Palos Hills was nothing short of remarkable, but it did little to attract Division I schools, with the exception of Chicago State. Strus would not let this deter him. He decided to follow in the footsteps of older brother Marty and attended Division II Lewis University, averaging 16.8 PPG and 6.9 RPG in his two seasons with the Flyers. After his sophomore year, he transferred to DePaul. He blossomed further, finishing with a scoring average of 18.6 points per game, placing him fourth all-time in the school’s history. On successfully graduating from DePaul with a degree in business administration, Strus entered the 2019 NBA Draft, but would go undrafted.

Following this, he joined the Boston Celtics for the Summer League and was given his 1st two-way contract. After being waived by the Celtics, Strus would once again sign a two-way contract. This time with his hometown Chicago Bulls, and eventually made his NBA debut in November 2019, marking a long and arduous journey to the pinnacle of the game. His time in Chicago was cut short when he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament, coupled with a bone bruise on his left knee. In November 2020, the Miami Heat picked up Strus, and he would become an important part of their rotation over the next three years. His standout performances for the Heat raised more than a few eyebrows, but one team was particularly interested in securing his signature. The Cleveland Cavaliers, in July 2023, signed him to a 4-year, $63 million contract in a sign-and-trade agreement. He has steadily improved his game and is gradually transitioning from a role player to a star for the Cavs. Strus has defied the odds by placing himself in basketball’s highest echelon through sheer hard work and determination, that can be directly attributed to his parents.

Who is Max Strus’ father, John Strus?

Dad, John, has been the driving force behind Max’s unquenchable thirst for excellence. John himself was a standout pitcher for the Eastern Illinois University Panthers, passing on his love for the game to his second son, prompting Max to take to the court from a young age.

Who is Max Strus’ mother, Debra Strus?

As the old adage goes, “It takes two to tango”. This could not be truer in Max Strus’ case, with not only Dad, John, playing a major role in his phenomenal development, but Mom, Debra, playing an equally important role. She has been a pillar of strength right through, passing on her wisdom gained while serving the Blue Demons as a player both in volleyball and basketball with great distinction. So much so, that she was inducted into DePaul’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000.

What is the nationality of Max Strus’ parents?

Strus is of German and Slovenian descent.

Max’s competitive drive through his early years can also be credited to him growing up with two siblings, both of whom are older than him. While older brother, Marty, played college ball for the Lewis University Flyers, sister, Maggie, was a volleyball star for the University of Illinois at Chicago. She currently assists her brother in the role of Camp Director for his basketball camps, as well as being Executive Program Director for the Andrew Weishar Foundation.

It is easy to understand why Max Strus has come such a long way in life despite all the hurdles he has faced. The answer lies in a strong foundation whose core are his parents and siblings, who to this day, have his back no matter the situation.