Jimmer Fredette: From College Star to Olympic Hopeful
Jimmer Fredette's journey through the world of basketball has been a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. Known for his stellar collegiate career at BYU, Fredette captured the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year award and led his team to back-to-back Sweet 16 appearances. These accomplishments made him a highly touted prospect, ultimately being selected as the 10th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in the 2011 NBA Draft.
Fredette's NBA career, however, was anything but smooth sailing. "Obviously the NBA career was very up-and-down, but that doesn't just happen to just me. It's about trying to find the right fit at the right time in the right situation, and that didn't quite happen the way it could have for me," Fredette reflected. Despite the challenges, his adaptability and resilience have opened new doors in his professional life.
A New Role in 3x3 Basketball
Fredette's journey took a significant turn as he transitioned to 3x3 basketball, a format vastly different from the traditional five-on-five game. Recognized for his contributions to the sport, Fredette was named USA Basketball 3x3 Male Athlete of the Year in 2023. This accolade is a testament to his skill and impact in a sport that demands quick decision-making, physical endurance, and strategic play.
The unique nature of 3x3 basketball presents distinct challenges and rewards. "The way this sport works, you either really like it or you don't like it at all. That people love it or hate it, I see the reasons why. It's difficult, there's a lot of travel involved all across the world. Sometimes you travel 36 hours for a tournament and if you lose two games you're done in like 20 minutes. ... There's just so much emotion in 3×3 basketball and it's different than five-on-five," Fredette shared. His passion for the game is evident, even as he acknowledges the rigorous nature of the sport.
Olympic Aspirations
As 3x3 basketball prepares for its second appearance as an official Olympic event in 2024, Fredette has played an instrumental role in qualifying Team USA for the Games. This achievement is particularly significant considering the Americans failed to make the cut for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Fredette, alongside teammates Kareem Maddox, Dylan Travis, and Canyon Barry, aim to bring home the gold in Paris.
The format of 3x3 basketball itself adds to the excitement of the competition. Featuring a half-court setup and a 12-second shot clock, the game is fast-paced and unforgiving. Field goals are worth one point, while shots beyond the arc earn two points. Teams must quickly adjust and strategize, as the ball changes possession after each basket, regardless of a make or miss. The first team to reach 21 points or the team with the most points after a single 10-minute quarter wins the game. In the case of a tie, the first team to score two points in overtime secures victory.
Competition and Expectations
Team USA's road to Olympic glory will be challenging. They will compete against formidable teams from Serbia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, France, China, and the Netherlands in pool play. The top two teams in the group automatically advance to the semi-finals, while the third to sixth-placed teams battle in the quarterfinals for a spot in the final four. The medal round is slated for August 5.
At the 2024 World Cup, Team USA finished second behind Serbia, a country that has consistently demonstrated its prowess in the sport. Serbia, currently ranked fourth globally, clinched the bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics and remains a challenging opponent. Meanwhile, Latvia, the reigning Olympic Champion, secured third place at the 2023 World Cup, solidifying their status as a top contender.
Fredette's resilience and adaptability continue to drive his career forward. "But as one door closes, another door opens, and I always tried to take full advantage of that by working hard and being prepared and believing in myself," he said. His journey from college star to Olympic hopeful is a testament to his dedication to the sport he loves. As the 2024 Olympics approach, Fredette and his teammates remain focused on their quest for Olympic gold, ready to face the challenges and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.