Chase Budinger and Miles Evans' journey in the 2024 Paris Olympics beach volleyball competition came to an end in the Round of 16. Facing the reigning champions from Norway, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum, the American duo suffered a defeat in straight sets, 21-16, 21-14, under the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower.
Budinger, who turned to beach volleyball after a career in the NBA, reflected on the unique experience of competing in the Olympics. "Playing in the Olympics, playing in this venue, will definitely be up there with some of my greatest basketball moments, for sure," he said. "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 types of memories that we'll have."
Budinger’s athletic journey is nothing short of remarkable. Drafted in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft, he began his professional basketball career with the Houston Rockets before being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2012. Subsequent stints with the Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns preceded his retirement from the NBA in 2017. Now, as a beach volleyball player, he continues to leave his mark on the sports world.
Route to Paris
The road to Paris was anything but straightforward for Budinger and Evans. They secured their spot in the Olympics by climbing the points rankings, a testament to their perseverance and skill. Their campaign began on a high note with a victory over a French duo. However, they faced setbacks with consecutive losses to teams from the Netherlands and Spain, both matches ending in straight sets. Despite these defeats, Budinger and Evans earned a place in the Round of 16 through the "lucky losers" round, triumphing over an Australian team.
Evans, whose partnership with Budinger has proven to be a force on the sand, demonstrated resilience throughout the competition. Yet, facing Mol and Sorum, the American pair faced a significant challenge. Mol and Sorum, who clinched gold at the Tokyo Games, showcased their dominance once again, decisively ending Budinger and Evans' Olympic run.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Budinger remains uncertain about his longevity in the sport, with age and physical condition being key factors. "I'll be old as dirt," Budinger wryly commented on his future in beach volleyball. "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."
As Budinger and Evans reflect on their Olympic experience, the excitement and intensity of playing in such a storied venue will undoubtedly remain a highlight of their careers. The anticipation for upcoming competitions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics expected to be held in Santa Monica, adds to the narrative of potential redemption and continued competition at the highest level.
American Success
While Budinger and Evans concluded their journey, another American men's beach volleyball duo, Miles Partain and Andrew Benesh, advanced to the quarterfinals. They secured their spot by defeating Italy's Samuele Cottafava and Paolo Nicolai in straight sets, 21-17, 21-18, highlighting the strength and depth of American beach volleyball talent.
Chase Budinger’s transition from the hardwood courts of the NBA to the sandy arenas of beach volleyball exemplifies the spirit of athletic versatility and determination. As he continues to push the boundaries of his athletic career, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the globe, illustrating that the pursuit of excellence knows no bounds.