Chase Budinger’s net worth was once built through his NBA career, now chases a new dream under the sun-soaked skies of Olympic Beach Volleyball. At 28, Budinger’s basketball career hit a sudden halt, but his competitive spirit was far from extinguished. Transitioning from hardwood to sand, he debuted on the AVP tour in 2018. Fast forward to the present, he’s making waves as the only ex-NBA player competing in Beach Volleyball at the Olympics.
How Chase Budinger’s Net Worth and Basketball Career Fueled His Olympic Beach Volleyball Dream
Starting his Olympic campaign with a bang, Budinger, alongside partner Miles Evans, trounced the home team of Youssef Krou and Arnaud Gauthier-Rat with a decisive 21-14, 21-11 victory. But the road ahead is tough. Facing formidable teams from Brazil and Spain by August 2nd, Budinger’s path to gold is filled with intense battles.
Financial Ups and Downs
Drafted in 2009 by the Detroit Pistons, Budinger was traded to the Houston Rockets the same night. With a four-year rookie contract valued at $3,277,413, his NBA journey began. In his three seasons with the Rockets, he averaged 9.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists across 210 games.
The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired him in 2012, signing a three-year, $15 million deal. However, persistent injuries plagued his performance, and he was traded to the Pacers in 2015. His stint there was short-lived, and after a brief period with the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets, his total NBA earnings amounted to $18,362,950.
Love and Volleyball
Budinger’s personal life saw an unexpected twist when he met his future wife, Jessica Fine, during a heated argument over the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight in 2015. Their passionate debate turned into a lifelong commitment, culminating in a proposal during a wine-tasting trip in Napa. Married in 2021, their vows included promises of love, support, and, humorously, lifetime spider-killing duties.
Amidst his NBA ups and downs, Budinger rekindled his passion for volleyball. A high school standout, he led his team to three state championships and was named National Player of the Year by Volleyball Magazine. Partnering with two-time Olympian Sean Rosenthal in 2018, Budinger quickly proved his mettle, clinching seven domestic events and placing second in San Francisco.
The Olympic Dream
Budinger’s Olympic aspirations took root shortly after his wedding. His goals were clear: to compete in the Olympics and to have his name etched on the Manhattan Beach Pier. Now, halfway to achieving his dream, he stands at the cusp of Olympic glory.
Budinger’s journey from NBA to beach volleyball is nothing short of inspirational. His story is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of passion, embodying the idiom, “When one door closes, another opens.” As an editor, it’s crucial to highlight the human elements in such stories, emphasizing the emotional and personal facets that resonate with readers.
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