Driven by unfinished business, the former BYU sensation targets a 3x3 comeback that could lead to Olympic glory in Los Angeles.
Jimmer Fredette never lost his love for basketball and his latest move is proof.
Less than two years after the former BYU Cougars star announced he was retiring from competition, USA Basketball announced he's back. The 37-year-old Fredette has been added to Team Miami for the remainder of the 2026 FIBA 3x3 Men’s Pro Circuit in Phoenix. His triumphant return from being in the front office.
“When I retired from the game I love 18 months ago, I was at peace,” Fredette said in a USA Basketball statement. “As my time removed from the half court extended, I realized I still have something left.“The possibility to come back came with the inspiration of my wife and family. I am focused on helping the USA Basketball 3x3 program achieve new heights. I am thankful for the support and encouragement as I take on this challenge.”
What could this mean for Fredette's future?
One thing is certain, this could be a warm-up for a real return to play in the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Being able to represent your own country in the biggest city seems like a bucket list item for Fredette.
“I won’t lie to you and say that there’s not a little bit of a feeling of unfinished business, but I think generally it’s more of me thinking I can still play,” Fredette told the AP. “There’s a lot of time between now and the Olympics, and so that’s not even something that I’m actually focusing on at this point.”
Fredette might just be trying to get back out to fulfill a sense of accomplishment. While he's still more efficient than some of the bench players that are currently in the NBA, those days are past him. Right now, he's taking one tournament at a time to see how he can get back in the groove. It's an opportunity Fredette believes is worthwhile to continue his basketball career. He still has the ability to shine at the highest level.
Fredette has been the managing director of USA Basketball’s 3x3 program since last year. After his NBA career ended five years ago, he began playing in 3-on-3 ball, which led to success on the international stage. In 2024, he represented the United States at the Olympic Games in Paris. He made history being on the first-ever roster for 3x3 USA basketball.
Unfortunately for Fredette, he suffered an injury in the Olympic Games. He announced his retirement shortly after and took on the role for USA Basketball. But he's ready to get back out and compete once again.
Fredette earned National Player of the Year honors at BYU in 2011. He still holds multiple school records from his days in Provo.
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