# Chase Budinger, from the NBA to Olympic Volleyball, Admits "I Miss Basketball"
Chase Budinger, a name synonymous with athletic prowess, has made headlines once again, but this time for a different sport. The former NBA player, who enjoyed a successful career in basketball, is now making his Olympic debut in beach volleyball. As he transitions from the hardwood to the sand, Budinger reflects on his journey and the bittersweet feelings that accompany it.
## A Dual-Sport Star
Budinger's athletic journey began in Southern California, where he excelled in both basketball and volleyball during high school. His talent was undeniable; he was co-MVP of the 2006 McDonald's All-American game alongside Kevin Durant and was named Volleyball Magazine's National Player of the Year. Despite the allure of dual-sport scholarships, Budinger chose to focus on basketball, attending the University of Arizona. There, he averaged 17 points per game over three seasons before entering the NBA as a second-round pick in 2009.
## Transition to Volleyball
After a seven-year career in the NBA, where he earned over $18 million, Budinger decided to retire from basketball in 2017. He sought to reignite his passion for volleyball, a sport he had loved since childhood. His dedication paid off; in 2018, he was named Rookie of the Year in the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP), marking a successful return to the sport.
## Missing the Game
In a candid interview with three-time beach volleyball gold medalist Kerri Walsh-Jennings, Budinger admitted, "I miss basketball. I mean, it was such a big part of my life for so long. But I've kinda put that part of my life away and started this new chapter." His words resonate with many athletes who face the challenge of leaving behind a sport that defined their youth and career.
## Olympic Aspirations
As Budinger prepares to compete in the Olympics alongside his partner Miles Evans, they are determined to make their mark. Despite the odds stacked against them, they qualified for the Games and are ready to "shock the world" in Paris. Their goal is to secure the USA's first men's beach volleyball medal since 2008, a feat that would be monumental for both athletes.
## Conclusion
Chase Budinger's journey from the NBA to Olympic volleyball is a testament to his versatility and resilience as an athlete. While he embraces his new path, the echoes of basketball remain in his heart. As he steps onto the sand, he carries with him the memories of the court, proving that the spirit of competition transcends any single sport.