In the early 2010s, Jimmer Fredette emerged as a dominant force in college basketball, dazzling crowds with his remarkable performances for Brigham Young University (BYU). Fredette's prowess on the court earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Naismith and Player of the Year honors for the 2010-11 season. Under his leadership, BYU reached the Sweet 16 for the second consecutive year, a testament to his influential presence on the team.
An Unconventional Journey
Fredette's scoring abilities were legendary, amassing 2,599 career points, the most in Mountain West history. This impressive feat led to his selection as the 10th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in the 2011 NBA Draft. However, the professional career that followed was a roller-coaster, marked by intermittent success and challenges.
"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. 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 reflected on his NBA journey.
Overseas Success and Transition to 3x3
Despite the lukewarm response in the NBA, Fredette found renewed success playing overseas, which eventually paved the way for his venture into the 3x3 basketball format. This version of the sport, played on a half-court with a 12-second shot clock, offers a dynamic and fast-paced environment that suits Fredette's style.
"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 3×3 basketball and it's different than five-on-five," Fredette explained the rigors and the appeal of 3x3 basketball.
Leading Team USA to Paris
Fast forward to 2024, Fredette's journey has come full circle as he headlines the U.S. 3x3 men's basketball team at the Paris Olympics. This opportunity comes as 3x3 basketball is recognized for the second time as an official Olympic event. The U.S. team's roster boasts talented players like Kareem Maddox, Dylan Travis, and Canyon Barry, with Fredette being instrumental in their qualification journey.
Team USA had setbacks in the past, failing to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Games. However, they made a statement by finishing second at the 2024 World Cup, just behind Serbia. With powerhouse teams like Serbia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, France, China, and the Netherlands in the competition, the stage is set for a thrilling series of contests.
The Road to the Medal Round
Teams will engage in a round-robin format, with the top two advancing directly to the semi-finals, while those finishing between third and sixth place compete in the quarterfinals. The medal round, eagerly anticipated, is scheduled for August 5. Notably, Latvia, the reigning Olympic champion, secured third place at the 2023 World Cup and will be formidable opponents.
The rules of 3x3 basketball are designed to emphasize high-speed action. Field goals are worth one point, or two if shot from beyond the arc. Unique to this format, there is no inbounds pass after a made basket, and possession changes immediately. Games begin with a coin toss, and the first team to 21 points or the highest score after a single 10-minute quarter wins. After regulation time, a tie game is resolved with the first team to score two points in overtime.
Fredette's Recognition and Impact
Fredette's journey in 3x3 basketball has not gone unnoticed. He was named the 2023 USA Basketball 3x3 Male Athlete of the Year, reflecting his significant contributions to the sport. His transition from the conventional 5-on-5 format to the dynamic 3x3 variant is a testament to his adaptability and skill.
As the Paris Olympics approach, Fredette's story stands as an inspiring narrative of perseverance, adaptability, and athletic excellence. Leading Team USA, Fredette is poised to leave an indelible mark on the 3x3 basketball stage, demonstrating that while paths may change, the spirit to conquer remains undiminished.