Jimmer Fredette was an absolute beast at BYU during his college days and won virtually every player of the year award during his senior season there in 2010-2011.However, after being selected tenth overall in the 2011 Draft, Fredette’s NBA career simply didn’t pan out, as he spent time with the Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans and New York Knicks over the course of five years.In the NBA, he averaged 6.0 points and 1.4 assists in 13.4 minutes over 235 games.However, the sharpshooter has built a successful career with the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball League and just showed off his skills for the American audience during The Basketball Tournament.His team, aptly called “Team Fredette” was eliminated from the $2 million first-place-prize competition on Friday, but Jimmer dominated his competition, averaging 32.8 points per game in the tournament.He also gained the respect of opposing players in the process.“When you’re guarding a guy like Jimmer," Eberlein Drive’s Jerome Randle said after the game, “You can’t beat him with one person. We threw four guys at him — even put some bigs on him — but he’s a tough matchup … We buckled down.”Recently, Michael Shapiro of Sports Illustrated spoke with Fredette, who hinted that his NBA dreams might not be over.
A possible return
“It’s just always nice to play in front of American audiences again. You never know who is watching, but at this point I’m just trying to get better as a player and have fun doing it. I have one year left in China for my contract, but after that I’ll be a free agent and we’ll see what’s out there,” he noted.
According to him, his game is much different now than it was when he was in the Association at the beginning of his career.
“I’m definitely a better player than I was before coming over, that’s for sure. I’ve really grown as a player, becoming versatile, able to do multiple things offensively. I’ve gotten stronger and learned how to cut guys off, stay in front. I think I’ve matured mentally and physically as a basketball player and I’m better than I ever have been,” he stated.
Most importantly, the NBA’s recent trend towards a perimeter-oriented style of play would suit his skill set.
“Things have changed a lot from when I entered the league with three-point shooting now at a real premium as well as guys who can really hit the deep threes and give their superstars space to operate,” he explained. “There’s a lot of transition, a lot of moving the ball, things I excel in, so I think the league has really changed to my favor since I got into the NBA.”
Judging by his success overseas, he may find himself content with his situation there and might re-sign after the upcoming season. But, there’s a chance that an NBA team can give him a chance. Judging by his collegiate numbers and what he’s done in Shanghai, he might have a lot to offer if he’s finally given a legitimate opportunity.