At the 2024 Paris Olympics, the journey of Chase Budinger and Miles Evans in the beach volleyball competition came to a close in the Round of 16. Despite a spirited campaign, they were bested by the reigning champions from Norway, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum, with scores of 21-16 and 21-14 in straight sets. This defeat marks a poignant moment in Budinger's diverse athletic career, which saw him initially rise to prominence on the basketball court before transitioning to beach volleyball.
Budinger's athletic journey has been nothing short of eclectic. Selected in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft, he began his professional basketball career with the Houston Rockets. In 2012, he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, and subsequent stints with the Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns followed. Budinger retired from basketball in 2017 and shifted his focus to beach volleyball.
Teaming up with Miles Evans, Budinger qualified for the Paris Olympics after climbing the points rankings, securing their spot in June. The duo kicked off their Olympic campaign with an impressive victory over a French team, setting an optimistic tone for their run. However, the subsequent matches proved challenging, as they lost in straight sets to teams from the Netherlands and Spain. Their determination shone through in the "lucky losers" round, where they battled past an Australian team to advance to the Round of 16.
Memorable Moments in Paris
Reflecting on his Olympic experience, Budinger emphasized the unique atmosphere and the memorable nature of the event. "Playing in the Olympics, playing in this venue, will definitely be up there with some of my greatest basketball moments, for sure," he remarked. "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."
For Budinger and Evans, the Olympic journey in Paris was a testament to their hard work and resilience. Although their run was halted by the exceptional Norwegian duo, the experience of competing on such a prestigious stage contributed to their professional and personal growth.
A Glance at Future Olympics
While the Paris Olympics conclude for Budinger and Evans, thoughts inevitably turn to the future. The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are anticipated to take place in Santa Monica, providing another potential stage for these athletes. Addressing the possibility of competing in another Olympics, Budinger humorously acknowledged the inevitable passage of time. "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," Budinger stated.
Budinger's roots trace back to Carlsbad, California, a place that has likely influenced his athletic prowess and perseverance. As he contemplates the years ahead, his journey remains a symbol of versatility and dedication in the world of sports.
Success for Other American Teams
While Budinger and Evans faced a tough exit, their compatriots Miles Partain and Andrew Benesh advanced to the quarterfinals. They secured their spot by overcoming Italy's Samuele Cottafava and Paolo Nicolai in straight sets, 21-17 and 21-18. This progression underscores the competitive spirit and skill present within the American beach volleyball contingent.
For now, the Paris Olympics will be remembered for the highs and lows experienced by Budinger and Evans. Their journey from qualification to the Round of 16 speaks to their tenacity and passion for the sport. As they step off the sand in Paris, the memories made under the Eiffel Tower and the roaring cheers of the crowd will remain etched in their minds and sports history.