Chase Budinger and Miles Evans' campaign in the 2024 Paris Olympics beach volleyball competition came to an end in the Round of 16. The American duo faced a formidable challenge in the defending champions from Norway, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum. Despite their best efforts, Budinger and Evans were unable to advance further, falling in straight sets, 21-16, 21-14.
A Spirited Journey
Budinger's transition from professional basketball to beach volleyball has been a fascinating one. He was selected in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft and began his basketball career with the Houston Rockets. Budinger then moved to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2012, followed by stints with the Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns before retiring from professional basketball in 2017.
In June, Budinger and Evans secured their spot for the Paris Olympics by climbing the points rankings. Their journey in Paris had a promising start, as they won their opening match against a French duo. However, subsequent losses to teams from the Netherlands and Spain in straight sets put their campaign in jeopardy. Their hopes of advancing were revived when they won the "lucky losers" round against an Australian team, securing their place in the Round of 16.
An Unforgettable Experience
Reflecting on his Olympic journey, Budinger shared, "Playing in the Olympics, playing in this venue, will definitely be up there with some of my greatest basketball moments, for sure. 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."
Facing Mol and Sorum, who had previously won gold at the Tokyo Games, was a daunting task. The Norwegian pair demonstrated their dominance once again, ensuring their progression in the competition and ending Budinger and Evans' run.
Looking Ahead
As Budinger contemplates his future in beach volleyball, the physical demands of the sport are certainly on his mind. He commented, "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."
For now, Budinger can take pride in his Olympic journey. Hailing from Carlsbad, California, he and Evans have shown resilience and determination, making a mark in a highly competitive field. Meanwhile, another American men's beach volleyball duo, Miles Partain and Andrew Benesh, advanced to the quarterfinals by defeating Italy's Samuele Cottafava and Paolo Nicolai in straight sets, 21-17, 21-18.
Anticipation for the Future
As the beach volleyball events in Paris wind down, attention starts to turn toward the 2028 Olympics, anticipated to be held in Santa Monica. It's a prospect that promises exciting times for American beach volleyball, especially with the performances seen from athletes like Budinger and Evans.
The legacy of these athletes, the thrills of their matches, and the roaring support from the crowd in Paris will remain etched in the memories of both the competitors and the fans. With every dig, set, and spike, they have demonstrated the spirit of the game and the passion that drives them forward. As the sun sets on Paris, the anticipation for the next opportunity on the Olympic stage begins to rise.