The 2024 Paris Olympics are fast approaching, with athletes from around the world set to compete for gold medals and national pride. Among the sports that the U.S. will be looking to dominate is basketball, with the introduction of 3-on-3 basketball being a new challenge for Team USA this year. College basketball phenom Jimmer Fredette will be making his Olympic debut, hoping to secure his first gold medal alongside his teammates Canyon Barry, Kareem Maddox, and Dylan Travis, who have already achieved success in previous international competitions like the FIBA 3-on-3 World Cup and the Pan American Games.
Fredette, who achieved fame in college basketball while playing for BYU, was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in 2011 but struggled to find his footing in the NBA. However, his skills were better suited for the Chinese Basketball Association, where he became a standout player, earning accolades such as a 73-point game and the CBA International MVP in 2017. Despite being 35 years old, Fredette remains a formidable player on the court, as evidenced by his recognition as the USA Basketball 3-on-3 Male Athlete of the Year in 2023. The Olympics will provide him with a new challenge and opportunity to represent his country on the world stage.
Fredette expressed his excitement about the opportunity to compete in the Olympics, noting that it is a different level of competition compared to other international events he has participated in. The familiarity and chemistry among Team USA’s 3-on-3 squad have been a key factor in their success leading up to the Olympics. Fredette emphasized the importance of continuity within the team roster, stating that it was what both USA Basketball and the players were hoping for. As they prepare to face off against top international competition, the team is focused on performing at their best in pursuit of gold.
The 3-on-3 basketball format has gained popularity in recent years, providing a more fast-paced and dynamic style of play compared to traditional 5-on-5 basketball. Fredette’s experience and skill set make him a valuable asset to Team USA in this format, where his scoring abilities and basketball IQ can make a significant impact on the team’s performance. As they make their Olympic debut in Paris, Fredette and his teammates are aiming to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level against the best players from around the world.
The journey to the Olympics has been a long and challenging one for Fredette, who has faced obstacles and setbacks in his basketball career. Despite the difficulties he encountered in the NBA, Fredette’s resilience and passion for the game have driven him to continue pursuing opportunities to compete at the highest level. The Olympics represent a new chapter in his basketball journey, where he hopes to make a mark on the international stage and contribute to Team USA’s quest for gold. With the support of his teammates and the backing of his country, Fredette is determined to give his all and leave everything on the court in Paris.
