Chase Budinger and Miles Evans Fall to Norway's Defending Champions at Paris Olympics
The journey of Chase Budinger and Miles Evans at the 2024 Paris Olympics came to an end in the Round of 16 of the beach volleyball competition. Facing the formidable Norwegian pair, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum, the American duo was defeated in straight sets, 21-16, 21-14.
Mol and Sorum, who clinched gold at the Tokyo Games and are known for their exceptional synergy and skills, proved an insurmountable challenge for Budinger and Evans. Despite their best efforts, the Americans couldn't overturn the tide against the defending champions.
Budinger's path to the Paris Olympics is a storied one. Originally making a name for himself in a different sport, he was selected in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft. Over the years, he played for teams like the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Indiana Pacers, and Phoenix Suns before retiring from professional basketball in 2017. His transition to beach volleyball has been remarkable, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.
Their qualification for the Paris Olympics in June was a significant achievement, ascending through the points rankings to secure their spot. Their campaign began on a high note with an initial victory over a French team, igniting hopes of a successful run. However, subsequent defeats against teams from the Netherlands and Spain in straight sets dampened their momentum. In a dramatic turnaround, Budinger and Evans clinched their Round of 16 spot by triumphing in the "lucky losers" round against an Australian team.
Reflecting on his Olympic experience, Budinger remarked, "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."
Another American duo, Miles Partain and Andrew Benesh, managed to advance to the quarterfinals, defeating Italy's Samuele Cottafava and Paolo Nicolai in straight sets, 21-17, 21-18. Their success casts a beacon of hope for American beach volleyball amidst a backdrop of intense competition.
Budinger, originally from Carlsbad, Calif., has always been candid about his athletic journey. Reflecting on his future in beach volleyball, he noted, "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."
As the beach volleyball events continue to unfold in Paris, anticipation already starts building for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which are set to be held in Santa Monica. The prospect of competing on home soil could spur American athletes to push even harder in the years to come.
While Budinger and Evans may have exited earlier than hoped, their journey to and through the Paris Games remains a testament to their dedication and skill. Through victories and losses, they have cemented cherished memories and laid down markers for future aspirations in the sport.
The resilience and determination of these athletes serve as a reminder of the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the Olympic spirit. Whether in basketball or beach volleyball, Chase Budinger's sports odyssey remains a compelling narrative of talent and tenacity.