In a thrilling episode of the Sports Central podcast, former NBA star Chase Budinger opened up about his transition from basketball to beach volleyball, revealing his excitement for an upcoming tournament at the iconic Inuit Dome. Budinger, who made headlines as the only athlete to have played in an NBA game and competed in beach volleyball at the Olympics, shared his unique journey while reflecting on his past experiences with basketball legends like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

As he prepares to hit the sand, Budinger expressed his eagerness to experience the atmosphere at the Inuit Dome, a venue he’s never played in before. “I’m excited just to see how they’re going to put the volleyball court inside the arena,” he said, highlighting the blend of nostalgia and anticipation he feels walking into a basketball arena once again. With memories of his NBA days flooding back, Budinger is ready to carve out a new legacy in beach volleyball.

The episode took a poignant turn as Budinger reminisced about his encounters with Kobe Bryant, sharing a heartfelt story about training with the late basketball icon. He described how Kobe’s intense focus and work ethic left a lasting impression on him, a testament to the competitive spirit that drives both athletes. Budinger’s journey from the hardwood to the beach has been marked by hard work and ambition, culminating in his dream of becoming an Olympian.

With the upcoming tournament looming, Budinger’s determination to succeed in beach volleyball is palpable. “I set my goals as high as I can,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to excellence. As fans gear up to support him at the Inuit Dome, the stakes have never been higher for this dual-sport athlete. Will Budinger’s passion and perseverance pay off on the sand? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: he’s ready to make waves.