In a highly anticipated match beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower, American beach volleyball team Chase Budinger and Miles Evans concluded their journey at the Paris Summer Games. The duo faced fierce competition from the Norwegian pair, Anders Mol and Christian Sorum, exiting the tournament in the lucky loser stage.
A Path Full of Ups and Downs
Budinger and Evans initially captured the spotlight with a victory against France, igniting hope for a remarkable run. However, subsequent matches against the Netherlands and Spain did not go in their favor, putting enormous pressure on their game against Norway. Ultimately, Mol and Sorum defeated them with decisive scores of 21-16 and 21-14, ending their Olympic aspirations in Paris.
For Budinger, a former NBA player who spent seven years on the basketball court, this Olympic appearance marked a significant chapter in his evolving sports career. “Playing in the Olympics, playing in this venue, will definitely be up there with some of my greatest basketball moments, for sure,” he reflected.
From NBA Courts to Olympic Sands
The transition from NBA to beach volleyball is a testament to Budinger’s athleticism and dedication. His partnership with Evans began at the outset of the two-year Olympic qualifying season, and their synergy was palpable right from the start. They managed to earn enough points to compete in Paris only in the final stretch, crushing under pressure to reach their Olympic dream.
The duo’s perspective on their Paris experience was overwhelmingly positive despite the early exit. “We've been hyping this up for so long, and it definitely exceeded expectations. This is by far the coolest thing I've ever done in my entire life," Evans enthused.
Memories Made and Lessons Learned
Playing under the dazzling lights of the Eiffel Tower, attended by a crowd of 12,000 fans, is a memory that will undoubtedly linger. “Playing underneath the lights, underneath the Eiffel Tower, which was sparkling – you can't replicate these types of memories that we'll have,” Budinger remarked, encapsulating the magic of the moment.
Receiving accolades from their opponents added another layer to their Olympic experience. Anders Mol expressed deep respect for Budinger’s transition from NBA to beach volleyball: "He is a really athletic guy. And it's really cool. I have so much respect for that journey."
Evans and Budinger took a moment to soak in the venue one last time, understanding the uniqueness of the occasion. “We took a moment before we had to head out, just, 'Let's look at this one more time. We're not going to see this again,'” Evans shared.
Eyes on the Future
While the Paris Games provided unmatched memories, both athletes are eagerly looking forward to future opportunities. The Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, with beach volleyball planned for Santa Monica, looms large on their horizon. Budinger, who will be approaching 40 years old by then, is optimistic about continuing his athletic journey. “I've always said it's really up to my body. And I take it year by year of how my body's feeling. Right now I can say my body's been feeling great.”
For Evans, this is just the beginning of what he hopes will be another Olympic adventure. “I hope that we can make the 2028 Olympics and see what that's all about. But this will always be one of the best memories of my life,” he said.
As the sun sets on one Olympic dream, another dawns brightly ahead for Chase Budinger and Miles Evans, athletes who have proven their mettle time and time again, both on the court and in the sands.