Chase Budinger's Olympic Volleyball Victory: From NBA Jitters to Triumph

Chase Budinger, a former NBA player, made a successful Olympic debut in beach volleyball with his partner, Miles Evans, defeating France in straight sets. Drawing on his basketball experience to manage nerves, Budinger overcame early jitters to achieve his Olympic dream. Other notable wins included the US, France, and Qatar's teams.

Former NBA player Chase Budinger has etched a memorable Olympic debut in beach volleyball, triumphing alongside partner Miles Evans. Together, they defeated host country France in straight sets during their opening matchup at the Paris beach volleyball tournament.

Reflecting on his career shift, Budinger, who played seven years in the NBA, shared how he channeled his experience from big basketball crowds to remain composed. Despite initial jitters, Budinger helped clinch a 21-14, 21-11 victory. He reminisced about his nerve-wracking first NBA game and how this time, his nerves didn't impair his performance.

“It took me six years to reach this goal, and there is no better feeling,” Budinger remarked. The American duo never trailed in the first set and overcame an early deficit in the second, wrapping up the game in just 32 minutes.

In other matches, the US's Nuss and Kloth defeated Australia, while France swept Germany's team. Qatar's men's team also secured a win against Sweden, maintaining their strong pool play record.