Duncan Robinson and Max Strus: Unlikely Journeys From Undrafted to Eastern Conference Rivals

In a twist of fate, Duncan Robinson and Max Strus, once undrafted and now integral rotation players in the Eastern Conference, find themselves forever linked through their roundabout paths to the NBA. The Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers have both benefited from the perseverance and resilience of these players who, despite early setbacks, never gave up on their basketball dreams.

Their journeys, though different, share a common thread of determination and grit. Tonight, Duncan Robinson and Strus face each other as opponents, a reunion after their time as teammates with the Miami Heat.

In his first year with the Cavaliers, Strus has quickly become a notable presence on the court. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra recognizes the inspiration that emanates from their stories, emphasizing the uncommon nature of their paths. He encourages aspiring young players to stay resilient, emphasizing that relentless fortitude can lead to unexpected success.

Robinson’s route to the NBA involved playing at the Division III level before receiving an invitation to Michigan, while Strus took a similar path, landing at DePaul. Both players navigated the challenges of going undrafted, a testament to their determination and work ethic.

Spoelstra acknowledges the differences in their playing styles but underscores the shared experience of overcoming adversity. “They both found a way to Division I programs and had to come through this league without getting drafted,” he said. “I think they can relate to each other from that standpoint. They’re different players. I think it’s easy to say they’re the same but not. Each player does different things. It’s fun to see that dynamic. We really enjoyed that time with Max.”

As Robinson and Strus face off on the court as opponents, their journeys serve as a reminder that resilience and perseverance can pave the way for unexpected success in the competitive landscape of the NBA. The paths they’ve taken from undrafted hopefuls to impactful players showcase the unpredictable yet remarkable nature of their basketball careers.