Jimmer Fredette, one of college basketball’s most electrifying scorers of the 21st century, has officially retired from professional basketball.
The former BYU standout made the announcement through a heartfelt Instagram post, reflecting on a career that took him from small-town high school gyms to the global stage.
“The first time I was outside with my brother shooting baskets and I saw the ball go in I was hooked,” Fredette wrote.
He rose to national prominence during his senior season at Brigham Young University, where he led the NCAA in scoring and was named the 2011 National Player of the Year.
“It wasn’t easy from the beginning,” Fredette wrote, “but my college career turned out better than I could have ever imagined.”
He was selected 10th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, who traded his rights to the Sacramento Kings.
Fredette’s NBA journey included stints with five teams over five seasons, where he struggled to find consistent playing time despite flashes of offensive talent.
“It was tough but I was still determined to make my journey a success,” he said, describing his NBA years as “very up and down.”
He later revitalized his career in the Chinese Basketball Association with the Shanghai Sharks, becoming a three-time All-Star and league MVP.
“During my time in China we made the playoffs every year, I was an all star 3 times, and won MVP,” Fredette wrote. “It changed the narrative of my career and it was such a positive experience.”
Following his time in China, Fredette transitioned into 3×3 basketball, joining USA Basketball and helping lead the program to international success.
“3×3 basketball came into my life unexpectedly and I loved the challenge,” Fredette wrote. “Eventually [we became] the number one team in the world as well as the number one player in the world… and ultimately take us to the Olympics.”
Beyond statistics and highlights, Fredette emphasized the life lessons basketball instilled in him.
“It has taught me how to work hard, be determined, work with others, understand how to battle through disappointment and scrutiny, how to handle success, and how to treat others with respect.”
At 36, Fredette said goodbye to his playing career with gratitude and optimism.
“I know I’ll be better off in my next phase because of this game and I will cherish the memories! It wasn’t always easy but it was always worth it!”
