Jimmer Fredette to Lead Team USA in 3x3 Basketball at Paris Olympics
As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, one name stands out in the realm of 3x3 basketball: Jimmer Fredette. This summer, Fredette is set to headline the U.S. 3x3 men's basketball team, bringing a wealth of experience and a storied career to the half-court game.
Rising to Fame
Many basketball fans will remember Fredette from his college years at BYU during the early 2010s. Renowned for his scoring prowess, he earned Naismith and Player of the Year honors in the 2010-11 season, guiding BYU to the Sweet 16 for the second consecutive time. Fredette set a record in the Mountain West Conference with 2,599 career points, cementing his legacy as one of college basketball's greatest scorers.
Fredette's performance in college led to him being drafted No. 10 overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2011 NBA Draft. However, his NBA career was met with challenges. "Obviously the NBA career was very up-and-down, but that doesn't just happen to just me," Fredette reflected. "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."
A New Frontier
Fredette's journey in professional basketball didn't end with the NBA. He found success playing overseas and eventually ventured into the 3x3 basketball format. In this dynamic version of the game, played on a half-court with a 12-second shot clock, Fredette has thrived. His transition illustrates the adaptability and resilience of his career.
"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 shared.
The Mechanics of 3x3 Basketball
3x3 basketball differs significantly from traditional five-on-five play. A field goal is worth one point or two points if shot from beyond the arc. There are no inbounds passes after a made basket; possession changes instantly. The game starts with a coin toss to determine which team will begin on offense or defense. To win, a team must either score 21 points first or have the highest score at the end of a single 10-minute quarter. If the game is tied after the quarter, the first team to score two points in overtime clinches the victory.
"The way this sport works, you either really like it or you don't like it at all," Fredette remarked. "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."
Team USA's Prospects
The U.S. 3x3 basketball team for the Paris Olympics boasts a talented roster that includes Kareem Maddox, Dylan Travis, and Canyon Barry, alongside Fredette. The team aims to improve on their recent performance after finishing second at the 2024 World Cup, falling just behind Serbia. Notably, Serbia is a formidable opponent, holding fourth place on the world leaderboard and having secured a bronze medal in Tokyo.
Latvia, the reigning Olympic champion in 3x3 basketball, will also be a key competitor, having secured third place at the 2023 World Cup. Team USA will compete against a strong field that includes Serbia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, France, China, and the Netherlands in a round-robin format. The top two teams from the group will advance directly to the semi-finals, while the teams finishing between third and sixth will battle in the quarterfinals.
The medal round is set for August 5, and fans can expect intense and fast-paced action. Given the sport's unique format and quick tempo, keeping possession and making every shot count will be crucial.
Fredette's Impact
Fredette's role in the team has been instrumental. He was recognized as the 2023 USA Basketball 3x3 Male Athlete of the Year, underscoring his impact and importance to the squad's success. His experience, scoring ability, and leadership will be vital as Team USA aims for Olympic gold in Paris.
As the games draw near, all eyes will be on Fredette and his teammates as they navigate through what promises to be a thrilling and competitive tournament. Paris could very well be the stage where Fredette adds another remarkable chapter to his already illustrious basketball career.