Breaking News: The Wisconsin Badgers Basketball team and Max Klesmit have mutually decided to part ways and terminate his player contract due to…
MADISON (NBC 26) — Max Klesmit, a native of Neenah, is enjoying every second of his time as a Badger as he approaches the end of his tenure at Wisconsin. Klesmit spoke with NBC 26 about his journey from Wofford to Wisconsin, his development both on and off the court, and his plans for the future.
Q: Let’s begin with the commencement of your time in college. During your two years at Wofford, what did you learn?
Klesmit: Hold on. Life does not happen all at once. Time, effort, and consistency are necessary for success. I learned the procedure from more experienced players like Storm Murphy and Ryan Larson during my freshman year. I discovered that if you work hard, it will ultimately pay off.
In the beginning, I wasn’t always content with my job; I wanted to play more and give more, but I eventually came to trust the process. I now attempt to teach the younger men here the same lesson as an experienced player at Wisconsin.
Q: You had interest from mid-major teams after graduating from Neenah, but neither Wisconsin nor Marquette recruited you. That gave you how much fuel?
Klesmit: It certainly did at first. However, I soon understood that I wanted to move somewhere where I was respected. I was confident in my abilities and thought I could compete at any level.
I spent a lot of my childhood watching Wisconsin play. My junior year, I had a taste of the Kohl Center, where the WIAA state tournament is held. My senior year was cut short by COVID-19, but I had always dreamed of playing for Wisconsin. I just had no idea if that would ever occur. However, I persisted, and ultimately it did
: Wisconsin called you as soon as you logged into the transfer site. Tell me about the moment you realized you were going to be a Badger.
Klesmit: The experience was quite exhilarating. After being among the first colleges to get in touch, there was a lull for almost a week. “We need to get you on a visit,” they stated when they phoned again. We’d want to take you home.
I got a strong sensation at that moment that I wanted to be in Wisconsin. I recall saying to the coaches, “This is where I want to be,” while we were having dinner at Johnny Delmonico’s in Madison. After that, there were several high fives and embraces. I was certain that I wanted to complete my career here.
What would you say best describes your experience as a Badger?
Klesmit: Fortunate. Everyone talks about Wisconsin’s basketball tradition, but you have to experience it yourself to truly get it.
The students, instructors, staff, and volunteers at the Kohl Center and Camp Randall all have a strong commitment to this program, so it’s not just about the sports. That makes you feel even more valued for wearing the uniform.
I tell myself, “Your younger self would be ecstatic just to wear this practice jersey,” on bad days when I’m exhausted or sore. I am thankful every day because of that viewpoint.
What are you most proud of as your time in college draws to a close?
Klesmit: Who I’ve developed into.
I was an immature 17 or 18-year-old with the wrong priorities when I started college. My development as a young guy was influenced by Wisconsin and the discipline it demands.
Many people just look at my stats and victories, but I’m equally proud of the way I’ve prepared for life outside of basketball.
In relation to post-college, what comes next?
Klesmit: For as long as I can, I want to play professionally. I’ll go wherever I’m most appreciated, whether it is in the NBA, G League, or abroad.
Beyond that, I’ve always been interested in broadcasting, perhaps announcing golf, football, and basketball games. I’d also wish to coach someday. At some point in my career, I would like to accomplish all three, but I’m not sure which will happen first.
First, though, this season still has work to be done. What is required for this team to have a strong March run?
Klesmit: Self-control and fortitude.
The hardest part of our schedule is coming up, and juggling basketball and school will be crucial. It’s simpler during winter break; simply concentrate on hoops. But now that school are resumed, staying locked in requires maturity.
Fortunately, we have a team of seasoned professionals that have gone through this before. We are aware of the requirements.
Which memory from your time at Wisconsin is your favorite?
Klesmit: Last year’s NCAA Tournament appearance. Although it didn’t turn out the way we had hoped, it was my first time. It’s unique to hear the name of your team called on Selection Sunday.
We obviously want to go farther this year, but you can’t take things like that for granted.
What would you say to your younger self, or to a young Neenah youngster who was looking up to you?
Klesmit: To start, express gratitude to your parents, coaches, and other supporters. Tell them how much you value them.
Second, have confidence in yourself. Never listen to someone who says you are incapable of doing something.
Third, take on obstacles head-on. There are no short cuts. You will be put to the test in life, but the greatest progress comes from the most difficult situations. Be honest, be loyal to yourself, and never give up—you can do anything.
