In a spirited journey at the Paris Summer Games, American beach volleyball duo Chase Budinger and Miles Evans saw their Olympic dreams come to an end, falling to the formidable Norwegian duo of Anders Mol and Christian Sorum. The Americans exited the competition in the lucky loser stage, a bittersweet end following a roller-coaster series of matches.
A Journey of Peaks and Valleys
Budinger and Evans' Olympic campaign began on a high note with a triumphant victory against France in their initial match. However, subsequent defeats to the Netherlands and Spain dampened their early momentum. Despite these setbacks, they persisted, ultimately earning the chance to compete in the lucky loser stage. There, under the sparkling lights beneath the Eiffel Tower, the Americans faced the Norwegians in a match attended by 12,000 fervent fans.
The match against Norway was a decisive one, with the scores reflecting the dominance of Mol and Sorum, 21-16 and 21-14. It was a moment of reflection and realization for the American pair, acknowledging both the challenge of their competitors and the unique, unforgettable experiences they garnered.
The Transition from Hardwood to Sand
Chase Budinger's pathway to the beach volleyball court is a story worth highlighting. A former NBA player, Budinger spent seven years in the league before making the significant shift to beach volleyball. "Playing in the Olympics, playing in this venue, will definitely be up there with some of my greatest basketball moments, for sure," Budinger remarked, reflecting on his transition between two starkly different sports.
Partnering with Miles Evans at the start of the two-year Olympic qualifying season, the duo’s journey has been one of dedication and relentless drive. They clinched their spot in the Paris Games only in the final two weeks of June, a testament to their perseverance and teamwork.
Memories Beneath the Eiffel Tower
Playing in such an iconic venue added to the gravity of their Olympic experience. "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," Miles Evans shared, capturing the shared sentiment of joy and awe that comes with competing on such a renowned stage.
The Eiffel Tower, aglow in the Parisian night, symbolized a pinnacle moment for Budinger and Evans. "Playing underneath the lights, underneath the Eiffel Tower, which was sparkling – you can't replicate these types of memories that we'll have," Budinger mused, his words conveying the unique magic of their surroundings.
Respect and Aspiration
Anders Mol, who played a pivotal role in ending the Americans' journey, expressed his admiration for Budinger's athletic versatility. "So much respect for Chase, who was able to play in the NBA for many years and was a great player there. And now he manages to play an Olympic sport for USA, beach volleyball. Those two sports are so different. He is a really athletic guy. And it's really cool. I have so much respect for that journey," Mol said, highlighting the rare feat of excelling in two vastly different sports arenas.
Looking to the Future
Despite their exit, Budinger and Evans remain optimistic and forward-looking. The duo is already setting their sights on the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, where the beach volleyball venue is planned for Santa Monica. "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," shared Evans, underscoring the enduring impact of their Paris experience.
By the time of the Los Angeles Games, Budinger will be approaching 40 years old, a fact he takes in stride. "I'll be old as dirt. 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," Budinger commented, emphasizing both the challenges and the hopeful resilience that lie ahead.
With an eye on the future and hearts full of cherished memories, Chase Budinger and Miles Evans have etched their names in the annals of American beach volleyball, showcasing determination and grace on the sands of Paris.