In a heartfelt farewell to the game, Jimmer Fredette, the legendary BYU standout, has officially announced his retirement from basketball. This decision comes after a remarkable career marked by extraordinary achievements and unforgettable moments.

Fredette took to social media to share his sentiments, stating, "Ever since I was young, I was obsessed with basketball. Seeing the basketball go in was magical. I wanted to play it every day. The game has taught me hard work, determination, and grit." He reflected on how basketball has profoundly shaped his life, taking him from his hometown of Glens Falls, New York, to global stages like the NBA, China, Greece, and even representing Team USA at the Olympics.

A Star is Born at BYU

Fredette captured national attention during his college career at BYU from 2007 to 2011. In his senior year, he averaged an astonishing 28.9 points per game, earning him the coveted consensus National Player of the Year title while leading the Cougars to a Sweet 16 finish. His legacy is cemented in BYU’s history, scoring a phenomenal 2,599 points and setting multiple records, including the most points in a single game.

An NBA Career with Highlights and Challenges

Drafted 10th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2011, Fredette was quickly traded to the Sacramento Kings, where his arrival spiked merchandise sales by an impressive 540%. Over three seasons, he played for the Kings, Bulls, Pelicans, Knicks, and Suns, averaging 6.0 points in 241 games. Though his NBA journey was filled with challenges, his charisma and talent left a lasting impression.

Dominating in China and FIBA 3x3

Fredette found his stride internationally, becoming a basketball sensation in the Chinese Basketball Association, where he lit up the scoreboard with an average of 34.2 points per game during his tenure with the Shanghai Sharks and earned the International MVP title in 2017. Later, he showcased his skills in Greece under the iconic coach Rick Pitino.

A Legacy in 3x3 Basketball

In the latter part of his career, Fredette shifted his focus to FIBA 3x3 basketball, earning accolades like USA Basketball's 3x3 Male Athlete of the Year in 2023. He even led Team USA into the upcoming 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, boasting the title of the world’s top-ranked 3x3 player. Unfortunately, his journey was thwarted by an injury, preventing him from competing further in the Olympics.

As he bids goodbye to basketball, Jimmer Fredette leaves behind a legacy as one of the most electrifying players in BYU history and a prolific scorer in college basketball. His induction into the BYU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021 will ensure that his impact on the sport is remembered for years to come.