Max Strus, who felt like he got lucky, truly stole the spotlight. He had to take a few moments to himself on camera, just to calm his nerves from his shining moment. The Dallas Mavericks had recently snapped their 7-game winning streak and entered the game to mount another winning one. On the other hand, the Cleveland Cavaliers stood strong behind their 7 wins in the last 10 games, setting the stage for a fiery showdown.
Both teams kicked off the game impressively, posting similar scores in the first quarter. The Cavaliers, however, surged ahead, holding a 60-56 lead at halftime. However, Luka Doncic had 27 points, 3 rebounds, and 6 assists by the half, hinting at a potential Mavericks comeback. Lucky for the Cavs, Max Strus had other plans. As the game saw 25 lead changes between both teams, Strus found his rhythm late in the fourth, turning the game into a thrilling spectacle. As a result, Max hit four threes in 67 seconds, only to seal the deal with a game-winning shot from beyond half-court; that too, over Luka.
MAX STRUS FROM BEHIND HALF COURT
BANGGGGGGGGGG @PatBevPod
pic.twitter.com/cp6dkwQqcj— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) February 28, 2024
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Interestingly, Max Strus’ buzzer-beater stands as the second-longest in the history of the NBA’s 3-point era at 59 feet.
Max Strus’ game-winner was officially from 59 feet. Per @ESPNStatsInfo, it’s the second longest game-winning buzzer-beater of the 3-point era. pic.twitter.com/zYwfP8rFwI
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) February 28, 2024
As the Cavs matched pound for pound with the Mavs, Max Strus showcased an unwavering dedication to lift his squad. He was constantly seen running across the court and demanding the ball with confidence. The Mavericks did their best to defend the sniper, but Strus erupted to score 15 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter; sinking highly contested shots from all angles.
Fans go bananas over Max Strus’ streak
When Luka and Kyrie Irving grace the court, they typically steal the show with their unique and dazzling moves. However, when Max Strus emerged, orchestrating a takeover reminiscent of Tracy McGrady, fans couldn’t contain their excitement for the sharpshooter.
In response to Strus’ half-court game-winner, @CountItPod humorously remarked, “Max Strus shot that shit from Akron 😭.”
Max Strus shot that shit from Akron 😭
— Count It (@CountItPod) February 28, 2024
Meanwhile, @Cbus2CLE conveyed their admiration for Strus in all caps, restoring the classic approach of applauding Strus’ exceptional performance.
MAX STRUS IS FUCKING INSANE
— OG Cleveland Fan (@Cbus2CLE) February 28, 2024
@Lamar4six went a step further, dubbing Strus as their GOAT for securing the Cavaliers’ victory.
MAX STRUS MY GOAT
— 𝕷𝖆𝖒𝖆𝖗𝖈𝖍𝖚 ✰ (@Lamar4six) February 28, 2024
Conversely, @JoshMooreHL asserted that Strus’ four-year, $64 million contract was worth every penny, signaling to the franchise the importance of retaining him for the years to come.
Max Strus was worth every penny. #LetEmKnow
— Joshua Moore ⚡️ (@JoshMooreHL) February 28, 2024
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Taking fandom to the next level, @meech2477 declared Strus their hero and playfully declared Max as the namesake for their firstborn baby.
MAX STRUS YOU ARE MY HERO AND THE NAMESAKE OF MY FIRSTBORN
— meech (@meech2477) February 28, 2024
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With a significant boost in morale, the Cavaliers now gear up to face the Chicago Bulls in the second leg of a back-to-back tomorrow. The anticipation among fans is palpable as they relish the excitement brought by Max Strus’ sensational performance.
Read More: Kyrie Irving Receives Cavs Fans’ Overwhelming Love Upon Cleveland Return in Mavs Threads