Jimmer Fredette's 3x3 Basketball Journey: From College Star to Olympic Contender
During the early 2010s, Jimmer Fredette captivated college basketball fans with his remarkable performances at BYU, earning Naismith and Player of the Year honors in the 2010-11 season. He scored a record 2,599 career points, the most in Mountain West history, and led BYU to the Sweet 16 for the second consecutive time that season. Fredette’s journey, however, didn’t end with an illustrious collegiate career; it took him through the twists and turns of the NBA and international circuits before landing him a place in the unique world of 3x3 basketball.
Fredette was drafted No. 10 overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2011 NBA Draft, but his NBA career didn’t pan out as smoothly as his college days. "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," Fredette reflected. "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."
After his time in the NBA, Fredette found success playing overseas and later ventured into the 3x3 basketball format, a high-paced variant of the traditional game. Known for its half-court setting, 12-second shot clock, and quick transitions, 3x3 basketball offers a fresh take that both excites and challenges players. Fredette quickly adapted to this format, earning the 2023 USA Basketball 3x3 Male Athlete of the Year recognition for his standout performances.
This summer, Fredette is set to headline the U.S. 3x3 men's basketball team at the Paris Olympics, a testament to his enduring talent and dedication. Team USA’s roster features notable names like Kareem Maddox, Dylan Travis, and Canyon Barry, making for a formidable lineup. The journey hasn't been straightforward for Team USA, as they failed to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Games. However, their performances have significantly improved, finishing second at the 2024 World Cup behind Serbia.
Serbia, a dominant force in 3x3 basketball, currently holds the fourth place on the world leaderboard and captured a bronze medal in Tokyo. Latvia, the reigning Olympic champion, secured third place at the 2023 World Cup. The competition in Paris will be intense, with Team USA facing Serbia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, France, China, and the Netherlands in a round-robin format. The top two teams from the group will advance to the semi-finals, while teams finishing between third and sixth will compete in the quarterfinals, culminating with the medal round on August 5.
"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," Fredette explained. "There's just so much emotion in 3×3 basketball and it's different than five-on-five."
3x3 basketball's rules add to its distinct flavor. A field goal is worth one point, or two points if shot from beyond the arc, and there’s no inbounds pass after a made basket. The game starts with a coin toss to decide which team begins on offense or defense. Possessions change swiftly, and players must dribble or pass the ball beyond the arc before attempting a shot. The fast-paced nature of the game means it can be decided by reaching 21 points or having the highest score after a single 10-minute quarter. If tied, the first team to score two points in overtime clinches the victory.
Fredette has been instrumental in driving Team USA’s ambitions in the 3x3 scene, leading them to secure their spot in Paris. As the Olympics approach, all eyes will be on him and his teammates as they seek to leave an indelible mark on the international stage. The shift from traditional basketball to the nuances of 3x3 has been challenging, but Fredette's adaptability and skill make him a key player in an event that is steadily gaining popularity and prestige.
With his extensive experience and unwavering determination, Jimmer Fredette embodies the spirit of a true competitor. As he prepares to lead Team USA at the Paris Olympics, fans and critics alike will be eager to see how his journey unfolds on one of the world’s grandest stages. The stakes are high, and the excitement surrounding 3x3 basketball continues to build, promising a spectacular showcase of talent and athleticism.