Chase Budinger's journey from the NBA hardwood to the sands of international beaches has been nothing short of remarkable. Transitioning successfully from professional basketball to an impressive showing in beach volleyball, Budinger has proven his athletic versatility on the world stage. Alongside partner Miles Evans, Budinger qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics, an achievement that added another significant chapter to his diverse sports career.
A Knockout Journey to Paris
Budinger, originally hailing from Carlsbad, California, made a name for himself in basketball, being drafted by the Houston Rockets in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft. His NBA career saw him playing for teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Indiana Pacers, and Phoenix Suns, before retiring from professional basketball in 2017. His shift to beach volleyball might have surprised many, but it was a calculated move that combined his athletic prowess with a deep passion for the sport.
Their journey to the Paris Olympics began in earnest in June, where Budinger and Evans qualified by ascending the points rankings. Their Olympic campaign started on a high note, defeating a French duo in their opening match. However, the road to glory is often paved with challenges. Subsequent losses to teams from the Netherlands and Spain meant that they had to fight through the "lucky losers" round to secure their spot in the Round of 16. In a gripping match, they emerged victorious against an Australian team, demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit.
Facing the Defending Champions
The Round of 16 saw Budinger and Evans face the formidable Norwegian duo, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum. The defending champions, who had previously claimed gold at the Tokyo Games, showcased their dominance by defeating the American pair in straight sets, 21-16, 21-14. Despite the loss, Budinger and Evans left the court with their heads held high, having pushed themselves against one of the best teams in the world.
Memories Under the Eiffel Tower
For Budinger, the experience of playing in the Olympics is one that will remain etched in his memory. "Playing in the Olympics, playing in this venue, will definitely be up there with some of my greatest basketball moments, for sure," he shared after his matches. "My first couple of matches, stepping onto the court with 12,000 people cheering... it was just an incredible atmosphere. Playing underneath the lights, underneath the Eiffel Tower, which was sparkling -- you can't replicate these type of memories that we'll have."
American Hopes Remain
While Budinger and Evans' journey ended in the Round of 16, other American hopes in men's beach volleyball remained afloat. Miles Partain and Andrew Benesh advanced to the quarterfinals after a convincing victory over Italy's Samuele Cottafava and Paolo Nicolai, winning in straight sets, 21-17, 21-18. Their progression keeps the American spirit alive in a fiercely competitive field.
Looking Ahead
Budinger’s comments on his future illustrate a measured approach to his career. "I'll be old as dirt. I've always said it's really up to my body. And I take it year by year of how my body's feeling. Right now, I can say my body's been feeling great." The prospect of competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, anticipated to be held in Santa Monica, might just be an intriguing possibility for the seasoned athlete.
Chase Budinger’s story is one of adaptation and resilience, from the buzz of NBA arenas to the sands of beach volleyball courts. His accomplishments in Paris reflect the hard work and dedication required to compete at the highest level, underscored by the unforgettable experiences that only the Olympic Games can offer.