Madison (NBC 26) – when he enters the last episode of his career in Wisconsin, from Neenah Max Klesmit absorbs every moment as a badger. NBC 26 sat down with Klesmit to discuss his path from Wofford to Wisconsin, its development on the pitch and outside of it and what is after graduation.
Q: Let’s start from the beginning of our career in College. What have you learned in Wofford for two years?
Klesmit: patience. Not everything in life happens quickly. Success requires time, effort and consistency. My first year, I had older teammates, such as Storm Murphy and Ryan Larson, who showed me what this process looks like. I learned that if you finally put on a job, it pays off.
At the beginning I was not always satisfied with my role – I wanted to play more, bring more – but I learned to trust this process. Now, as an older player in Wisconsin, I am trying to convey the same lesson to younger guys.
Q: When leaving Neenah, you were interested in medium -sized programs, but Wisconsin and Marquette did not recruit you. How much has it fueled you?
Klesmit: At the beginning it’s definitely yes. But I quickly realized that I wanted to go somewhere. I was valued. I knew my value and believed that I could compete at any level.
Growing up, I watched Wisconsin all the time. Wiaa State Tournament takes place in the Kohl Center, so I had a petite taste of this environment in the juvenile year. Covid-19 shortened my older year, but the game for Wisconsin has always been a dream. I just didn’t know if it had ever happened. But I worked and ultimately yes.
Q: After entering the Wisconsin transfer portal, he arrived. Take me back to the moment you knew you would be a badger.
Klesmit: it was a bit of a mountain queue. It was one of the first schools that reached out, but then matters died down for about a week. When they called again, they said: “We have to visit you. We want to bring you home. “
At that moment I felt good that Wisconsin was where I wanted to be. I remember sitting at dinner at Johnny Delmonico’s in Madison and told the trainers: “That’s what I want to be there.” Then there were many hugs and Fridays. I knew I wanted to end my career here.
Q: How would you sum up your time as a badger?
Klesmit: blessing. People always talk about the tradition of Wisconsin basketball, but you do not quite understand it until you are immersed.
It’s not just about games – these are students, lecturers, people working in the center of Kohl and Camp Randall – they care about this program. This gives even greater recognition for setting up a uniform.
On complex days, when I am sore or tired, I remember: “Your younger me would be delighted to wear this exercise shirt.” This perspective makes gratitude to every day.
Q: When you are approaching the end of your career in college, what are you most proud of?
Klesmit: the person I became.
When I started my studies, I was an immature 17 or 18-year-old, focused on the wrong things. Wisconsin and the discipline he requires, helped me shape me in a juvenile man.
Many people only see statistics and win, but I am just as proud of how I prepared for life after basketball.
Q: Speaking of College – what next?
Klesmit: I want to play professionally as long as possible. Regardless of whether it is NBA, G League or abroad, I will go where I am most valued.
In addition, I was always interested in the broadcast – playing basketball and football matches, and maybe even golf. And at some point I would like to train. I don’t know which one will be the first, but best, I would do all three at some point in my career.
Q: But firstly, this season can still be done. What will this team do in March?
Klesmit: discipline and immunity.
We enter the most complex part of our schedule, and the key will be balancing the school and basketball. It is easier during the winter break – you just focus on the rims. But now, with classes, it requires maturity to stay closed.
Fortunately, we have a team of veterans, guys who have gone through it earlier. We know what it needs.
Q: Can you choose your favorite memory of your stay in Wisconsin?
Klesmit: Last year creating the NCAA tournament. It did not end as we wanted, but for me it was my first time. Hearing the name of your team on Sunday selection – this is unique.
Of course, this year we want to do a deeper run, but you can’t take such moments for something obvious.
Q: If you had a message for your younger self – or a child in Neenah look at you – what would you say?
Klesmit: First, I thank people who support you – your parents, trainers, everyone in your corner. Tell them how much they mean to you.
Secondly, believe in yourself. Never let anyone say that you can’t do something.
Third, face challenges. There are no shortcuts. Life will test you, but the biggest challenges lead to the greatest growth. Stay faithful to yourself, be sincere and continue working – you can achieve everything.
