Competing in the lucky loser stage of beach volleyball at the Paris Olympics, former NBA player Chase Budinger and Miles Evans found themselves overmatched by the Norwegians. Despite starting with a victory over France, the American team failed to advance to the round of 16 after losses to the Netherlands and Spain. Their journey came to an end with a defeat against Norway’s formidable duo, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum, the defending gold medalists from Tokyo.
For Budinger, the Olympic games provided unforgettable memories to add to his NBA career highlights. Stepping onto the court in front of a cheering crowd of 12,000 people, he described the atmosphere as incredible. Playing under the lights with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the background created a unique experience that he cherished. Reflecting on the opportunity to represent his country on such a grand stage, Budinger expressed the significance of the moment.
Budinger, a high school basketball and indoor volleyball standout, transitioned from his successful college career at Arizona to a seven-year stint in the NBA. Partnering with Evans for beach volleyball proved to be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. The duo secured their spot in Paris during the final two weeks of the Olympic qualifying season, overcoming odds and earning the respect of their competitors.
Appreciating the Olympic Spirit
Before leaving the sand for the final time, Budinger and Evans paused to savor the moment. The realization that they might not experience such a setting again led them to reflect on the journey they had undertaken. Evans described the Olympic experience as the coolest thing he had ever done, emphasizing the lasting impact it would have on his life. The hope of returning for the 2028 Olympics lingered, with the prospect of competing on home soil adding to their aspirations.
For Budinger, the added pressure of representing his country in beach volleyball brought a new level of nerves and emotions. The chants of ‚U-S-A!‘ resonated deeply, stirring a sense of pride and responsibility. In a sport where teamwork is essential, every play requires full involvement from both members of the team, intensifying the competitive spirit and camaraderie.
As they contemplate the possibility of participating in the 2028 Games, Budinger and Evans envision a different experience as the home team. With the beach volleyball venue planned for Santa Monica, conveniently situated between their respective hometowns, the prospect of competing on familiar ground excites them. Despite the challenges of age, Budinger remains open to the idea of continuing his competitive journey, acknowledging that his body’s condition will ultimately determine his future in the sport.
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