Former NBA player Chase Budinger has made an unexpected transition from the hardwood to the beach. Representing the United States at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Budinger is now a beach volleyball player alongside his partner, Miles Evans.
A recent tweet from The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) highlighted a remarkable story of athletic transformation. The tweet simply stated: “Former NBA player Chase Budinger is representing the U.S. at the 2024 Paris Olympics as a beach volleyball player .” This seemingly short statement encapsulates a fascinating career shift and Budinger’s dedication to athletic excellence.
Former NBA player Chase Budinger is representing the U.S. at the 2024 Paris Olympics as a beach volleyball player 🏐 pic.twitter.com/w4EXCmIqYs
— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) June 5, 2024
A Basketball Standout: Chase Budinger’s NBA Career
Chase Budinger’s athletic journey began on the basketball court. He enjoyed a distinguished career in the National Basketball Association (NBA), showcasing his talent for seven seasons. Drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2009, Budinger went on to play for teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Indiana Pacers, and Phoenix Suns.
During his NBA tenure, Budinger established himself as a valuable asset, known for his athleticism and three-point shooting prowess. He even participated in the 2012 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, famously jumping over Sean Combs (better known as P. Diddy) during the competition.
In 2018, Budinger made his AVP Tour debut in beach volleyball. Fast forward to 2024, and he’s secured a spot at the Paris Olympics. Alongside Miles Evans, Budinger outlasted competitors Theo Brunner and Trevor Crabb in the last qualifying tournament. Now, he’s set to compete for Olympic gold on the sands of Paris.
A New Horizon: Embracing Beach Volleyball
After a successful stint in the NBA, Budinger opted for a bold career move in 2017. He decided to retire from professional basketball and set his sights on a new athletic challenge: beach volleyball. This decision stemmed from his lifelong passion for the sport, which he played recreationally throughout his basketball career.
Budinger’s commitment to beach volleyball was evident. He dedicated himself to rigorous training, honing his skills and adapting his athletic strengths to the demands of the sand. His perseverance paid off, as he secured a spot on the AVP tour in 2018, the premier professional beach volleyball circuit in the United States.
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