PROVO (KUTV) — Former BYU standout and basketball journeyman Jimmer Fredette announced his retirement from professional basketball, ending a career that spanned multiple leagues — and multiple countries.
Fredette, 35, made the announcement Wednesday via social media.
“It’s time to say goodbye to basketball,” according to his statement. “I have loved every second of my career through the good and the bad.”
“Basketball has made me who I am today,” he added. “”Excited for what is next in my life with my family!”
Fredette rose to national prominence during his collegiate career at BYU, where he was named the 2011 NCAA Player of the Year and captured an ESPY award.
He was selected in the top 10 of the 2011 NBA Draft.
Though his NBA career didn’t match his collegiate success, Fredette found his stride internationally, most recently representing the United States in 3×3 basketball competitions, including the 2023 Pan American Games, the 2023 3×3 World Cup, and the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“Ever since I was young, I was obsessed with basketball,” he stated. “Seeing the basketball go in was magical. I wanted to play it everyday. The game has taught me hard work, determination, and grit.”
His basketball journey was started with determination from an early age. A handwritten contract dated January 27, 2007, which Fredette shared in his announcement, showed a teenage Fredette pledging “to do the work and make the necessary sacrifices to be able to reach my ultimate goal of playing in the NBA.”
Fredette has played professionally in the NBA, China, Greece, and for Team USA in international competitions.
“It wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it,” Fredette concluded. “The next journey starts now.”
Jimmer Fredette’s Retirement Statement
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. Basketball has taken me all around the world: from Glens Falls NY, to BYU, the NBA, China, Greece, and even Team USA at the Olympics! This game and my love for it has shaped me into the person I am today and for that I am forever grateful. So many memories and amazing moments. It wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it! The next journey starts now. Sign off!
Jimmer Fredette
Mateyo Jakobi reported from Salt Lake City
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