Former BYU star Jimmer Fredette has decided to end his professional basketball career. At 36 years old he’s finally pursuing his dreams, as a 2024 Olympic hopeful. Fredette’s career took him through several leagues stateside with impressive runs in the Association, international play, and overseas pro leagues. He leaves behind an amazing legacy chock-full of extraordinary achievements. That includes earning Olympic gold medals with Team USA and an MVP award in the Chinese Basketball Association.
That proved true in 2011 when Fredette began his professional career. Only a few months after he graduated, the Milwaukee Bucks took him No. 10 overall in the NBA Draft. He was quickly traded to the Sacramento Kings. It was there, arguably more than any other place in his six-year NBA career, that he had the biggest impact. During this period, Fredette went on to play for the Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, New York Knicks and Phoenix Suns.
Despite facing challenges in the NBA, Fredette found renewed success in his later years by focusing on 3×3 basketball. His absolute brilliance on the court knocked everyone alive off their feet. Most recently, he was instrumental in guiding Team USA to gold medals at the 2022 FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup and the 2023 Pan American Games. On top of that, he was one of the leading factors behind the national team’s shocking silver medal performance at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
Fredette’s international career was pretty special too. He briefly played professionally in China, where he won MVP honors for the Chinese Basketball Association in 2017. Exceptionally talented, his time overseas afforded him the opportunity to prove it on an international level. This year-long experience further solidified his status as a premier scorer and playmaker.
Fredette said he was thankful for what basketball opened up for him.
“I owe a lot of who I am today to this game and it’s not easy to say goodbye as a player,” – Jimmer Fredette.
While Fredette’s playing days come to a close, his impact on the game of basketball will not be forgotten. Above all, he’s committed to the game and the best in the business at flourishing in exotic settings. This indomitable spirit continues to inspire fans and would-be players alike.
“Basketball has taken me all around this world: from Glens Falls NY, to BYU, the NBA, China, Greece, and even Team USA at the Olympics!” – Jimmer Fredette.
As he moves on from playing, Fredette’s contributions to basketball—both in the NBA and international competitions—will not be forgotten. His dedication to the sport and ability to adapt and thrive in various environments have left a lasting impact on fans and aspiring players alike.
Leave a Reply