Chase Budinger’s athletic journey is nothing short of cinematic. From being a familiar figure on the NBA courts to now becoming a formidable force on the sands of beach volleyball, Chase Budinger is setting his sights on the 2024 Olympics in Paris. His career shift is not just a transition but a testament to the sheer versatility and adaptability of elite athletes.
Chase Budinger: A Stellar NBA Career
Chase Budinger, standing tall at 6ft 7in, was the 44th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. Throughout his career, he was known for his agility and sharpshooting, contributing significantly to teams like Houston, Minnesota, Indiana, and Phoenix.
Though his NBA stint might not have been star-studded, averaging 7.9 points per game, Chase Budinger’s athletic prowess was always clear. His best season came in 2011-12 with the Rockets, where he averaged 9.6 points per game and shot a commendable 43 percent from the field.
Transition to Beach Volleyball
In a surprising turn of events, post-NBA, Chase Budinger didn’t choose a typical retirement path. Instead, he switched courts for beaches, trading basketball jerseys for volleyball shorts. Now, he is a crucial player for the US Men’s Beach Volleyball team, paired with Miles Evans.
This dynamic duo has climbed the world rankings, now sitting at the impressive position of 13th globally. “Most guys, when they finish a sport, they’re kind of confused, or they’re kind of lost for the next journey,” Chase Budinger reflected during an interview on the Sandcast podcast. Fortunately for him, the transition was as swift as it was successful.
An Olympic Dream
Heading to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, Chase Budinger’s aspirations are not just about participation but making history. He is poised to become the only athlete ever to play in both an NBA regular season and Olympic volleyball. This rare feat highlights not only his diverse skill set but also his dedication to excellence in two vastly different sports.
Fan Reactions and Support
The response to Chase Budinger’s career change has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans marveling at his athletic versatility. Tweets like “Amazing,” and “Bro had a 40 plus inch Vert. At 6’7 he’s probably doing windmills before spiking the ball,” encapsulate the public’s admiration and support for his new sporting endeavor.
Looking Forward
As the 2024 Olympics approach, Budinger is not just preparing to compete; he’s ready to captivate the global audience with his remarkable story of transformation. While other athletes might struggle with identity post-retirement, Budinger has seamlessly embraced his new chapter.
The narrative of Chase Budinger is a compelling reminder of the infinite possibilities that await beyond the comfort zone. As he prepares to dive into the sands of Paris, the sports world watches eagerly, anticipating not just a competition but a celebration of resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of passion.
