Jimmer Fredette: From College Star to 3x3 Basketball Success
Jimmer Fredette's name is synonymous with college basketball excellence, particularly during his time at BYU, where he captured the Naismith College Player of the Year award. His exceptional performance led the team to back-to-back Sweet 16 appearances, making him one of the most celebrated players in the program's history. This success catapulted him to the 10th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in the 2011 NBA Draft, marking the beginning of his professional basketball journey.
However, Fredette’s NBA career was anything but smooth. "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 this, he kept his passion alive, seeking other avenues to showcase his skills.
In 2023, Fredette found new life in the burgeoning sport of 3x3 basketball. His dedication and versatility earned him the title of USA Basketball 3x3 Male Athlete of the Year. This recognition was a testament to his significant contributions to Team USA, particularly his role in qualifying the team for the 2024 Olympics. The Americans had previously failed to make the cut for the 2020 Tokyo games, making this achievement even more meaningful.
3x3 Basketball: Quick, Intense, and Unforgiving
For those unfamiliar, 3x3 basketball is markedly different from the traditional 5-on-5 game. It features a half-court setup and a mere 12-second shot clock, demanding rapid decision-making and quick plays. Field goals are worth one point, while shots beyond the arc earn two points. Each basket results in a change of possession, regardless of whether the shot is made or missed. The game concludes when a team reaches 21 points or has the most points after a single 10-minute quarter. In the event of a tie, the first team to score two points in overtime claims victory.
Fredette quickly adapted to the fast-paced and emotionally charged environment of 3x3 basketball. "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 3x3 basketball and it's different than five-on-five," he explained.
Team USA’s Pursuit of Olympic Glory
Team USA's roster for the upcoming Olympic event includes not only Fredette but also Kareem Maddox, Dylan Travis, and Canyon Barry. Together, they form a formidable team ready to take on international competitors. 3x3 basketball will be an official Olympic event for just the second time in the summer of 2024, adding an extra layer of excitement and competition.
In pool play, Team USA will face off against Serbia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, France, China, and the Netherlands. The top two teams in the group will automatically advance to the semi-finals, while the third to sixth-placed teams will compete in the quarterfinals for a shot at the final four. The medal round is scheduled for August 5, and anticipation is building around whether Team USA can outperform the competition.
Global Competitors
The Americans' recent track record is promising. They finished second behind Serbia at the 2024 World Cup, demonstrating their capability to contend with the best. Serbia, ranked fourth globally, boasts an impressive track record, having clinched the bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics. Meanwhile, Latvia, the reigning Olympic champion, placed third at the 2023 World Cup.
The Road Ahead
Fredette’s journey from college star to 3x3 basketball standout reflects his resilience and adaptability. "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," Fredette remarked. His story is far from over as he and Team USA prepare to make their mark in the 2024 Olympics.
As the world awaits the summer games, 3x3 basketball is poised to captivate audiences with its thrilling, fast-paced action. For Fredette, it represents yet another chapter in a career defined by passion, persistence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.