The Valparaiso University men’s basketball program has announced that Maximus Nelson (Appleton, Wis. / Appleton North) has signed his national letter of intent to continue his career at Valpo, beginning with the 2022-2023 academic and athletic year.

“The main factor in my college decision was the coaching staff and players surrounding the program,” Nelson said. “It’s a great coaching staff. I love Coach Lottich, Coach Bowen and the whole staff. They’re all great people who are very compassionate and understanding. They know how stressful it can be for a player to go through the recruiting process. They did a great job recruiting me. The teammates that I met up with on the visits were very nice and friendly. It’s a great school academically and athletically.”

Nelson averaged 20 points, 11 rebounds and four assists per game as a junior in 2020-21. The 6-foot-8 forward was a unanimous first team all-conference selection while also earning honorable mention all-state. In addition, he holds 10 records at Appleton North.

“Maximus embodies everything that a Valparaiso University student is about,” Valpo head coach Matt Lottich said. “He’s committed to his academics, and as a basketball player he’s really tough. He has great size and tremendous shooting ability. We are extremely excited to add that type of skill level and toughness to our program. We’re also thrilled to add that type of person to our student body.”

In the first round of the Wisconsin state playoffs last season, Nelson had a 44-point performance to establish a career high and hit the game-tying shot to send it into overtime.

“I think I do a good job with my inside-outside game,” Nelson said. “I can score down low, but also stretch the floor by shooting the 3. I hustle and play great defense, so you’ll see a lot of energy out of me on the court.”

Nelson, who also played volleyball this past fall, enjoys spending time with others and having conversations in his spare time. He also enjoys working kids camps and teaching young children the sport of basketball.  

“The Valpo coaching staff stuck with me throughout the recruiting process and consistently kept in touch,” Nelson said. “They always ask about how I’m doing, and it’s not just about basketball, but about life in general. They care about my family and me as a person.”

An extremely strong student, Nelson has interest in pursuing a degree in business or marketing. He looks forward to embracing the challenge of adapting to college, both academically and athletically.

“I know the speed of the game is going to be faster, so I need to prepare for how fast the game will be,” Nelson said. “It’s going to be really exciting. I’ve enjoyed every step in the process so far, and I can’t wait until next year to get started at Valpo.”