On April 23, 2025, Jimmer Fredette, the former BYU basketball star, announced his retirement from professional basketball at the age of 36. Fredette rose to national prominence during his college career at BYU from 2007 to 2011, leading to his selection as the 10th overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, who soon traded him to the Sacramento Kings. Despite a stellar college career, Fredette struggled to find lasting success in the NBA, playing for five teams over six seasons. His career flourished internationally, however, with notable stints at the Shanghai Sharks in Chinawhere he earned the Chinese Basketball Associations MVP award in 2017and Panathinaikos in Greece. He also represented the United States in the Olympics. In his Instagram retirement announcement, Fredette expressed gratitude for what basketball has given him and shared his excitement for the next chapter of his life. citeturn0news14
Fredettes college career was marked by impressive achievements. He led the NCAA in scoring in 2011 with an average of 28.9 points per game and helped BYU reach the Sweet 16. His exceptional performance earned him national recognition and the nickname Jimmermania. After being drafted 10th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft, he played six seasons with five NBA teams, including the Sacramento Kings and New Orleans Pelicans. Although his NBA career was modest, Fredette found significant success overseas, particularly in China, where he was named MVP of the Chinese Basketball League in the 201617 season, averaging 37.3 points per game and recording standout performances with 70 and 75 points in individual games. He also represented the U.S. in 3×3 basketball at the Paris Olympics, but an injury derailed the teams medal hopes. Fredette is now a partner at Tandem Venture Partners, a Utahbased venture capital firm. citeturn0news12
Fredettes retirement marks the end of a diverse and impactful basketball career. From his college dominance to his international success, he has left a lasting legacy in the basketball world.