Chase Budinger

Chase Budinger, a former professional basketball player turned beach volleyball star, has made a significant impact on the sand courts since transitioning from the NBA. Born on May 22, 1988, in Encinitas, California, Budinger was a standout athlete from a young age, excelling in both volleyball and basketball during his high school years. After a successful basketball career at the University of Arizona, he was drafted into the NBA in 2009, where he played for teams including the Houston Rockets and Minnesota Timberwolves. In 2016, Budinger made the bold decision to pivot to professional beach volleyball, a sport he had always been passionate about.

Since joining Team USA Beach, Budinger has quickly risen through the ranks, leveraging his athleticism, height, and competitive spirit to become a formidable presence on the sand. His transition was marked by a rapid adaptation to the nuances of beach volleyball, earning him a reputation as a dedicated and skilled player. Budinger's partnership with various seasoned beach volleyball players has further honed his skills, making him a key player for Team USA in international competitions.