Who is Chase B?

Story of The Week

Chase Budinger, born in Encinitas, California, was destined for athletic greatness from a young age. Growing up in a sports-centric family, with both siblings excelling in collegiate sports, Chase was surrounded by competition and inspiration. His passion for both basketball and volleyball ignited early, as he split his time between the court and the beach, honing his skills in both arenas.

In high school, Budinger became a two-sport star, dazzling on both the basketball court and the volleyball court. His remarkable agility, vertical leap, and natural talent drew the attention of college scouts across the country. He eventually chose to play basketball at the University of Arizona, where his explosive scoring and high-flying dunks made him a standout player. His college success led to his selection in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, though he was quickly traded to the Houston Rockets.

In the NBA, Budinger made a significant impact, particularly with the Rockets and later with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Over his career, he averaged 8.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. His biggest contract came in 2013 when he signed a three-year, $15 million deal with the Timberwolves. Despite his achievements in basketball, Chase’s love for volleyball never waned.

After retiring from the NBA, Budinger made a remarkable transition to professional beach volleyball, where he quickly established himself on the AVP tour. His athletic journey took another remarkable turn when he represented the United States in volleyball at the Paris Olympics, further cementing his legacy in two sports.

Chase’s journey is a powerful example of following one’s passion and embracing change. He often emphasizes the importance of versatility, dedication, and the belief that it’s never too late to pursue a new dream. His story serves as an inspiration to young athletes, showing that the skills learned in one sport can enhance performance in another, and that success comes from dedication and the courage to pursue what you love.

To see more on Chase and his life follow him on IG Chase Budinger (@budinger10) • Instagram photos and videos

Stat of the week

From the world of did you know?

Coin Toss Luck: From 1998 to 2011, the Detroit Lions lost every single pre-game coin toss during their Thanksgiving Day games—a total of 11 straight losses.

No Goals For You: NHL defenseman Gordie Roberts played in 1,192 games without scoring a single goal—a record for the most games played by a player without a goal.

91% Foul: Ichiro Suzuki, the legendary MLB hitter, was known for fouling off pitches he didn’t like. Over his career, 91% of his at-bats featured at least one foul ball—a testament to his ability to protect the plate.

Long John Fact: John Daly, known for his long drives, once hit a golf ball 806 yards. It was during the 1997 PGA Championship in Denver, where the altitude and a downhill fairway helped his ball roll an absurd distance.