30 Facts About Jimmer Fredette

Early Life and Background

Jimmer Fredette's journey to basketball stardom began long before his college days. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life.

1. Birthplace: Born on February 25, 1989, in Glens Falls, New York, Fredette grew up in a small town with a big love for basketball.

2. Nickname: His mother nicknamed him "Jimmer" to distinguish him from his father, Al, whose real name is James.

3. Family Support: His older brother, TJ, played a significant role in his development, often challenging him with intense training sessions.

4. High School Star: At Glens Falls High School, he became the all-time leading scorer in the school's history, amassing over 2,400 points.

5. Multi-Sport Athlete: Besides basketball, he also excelled in baseball and soccer during his high school years.

College Career at BYU

Fredette's college career at Brigham Young University (BYU) catapulted him into the national spotlight. Here are some key highlights.

6. Recruitment: Despite his high school success, he wasn't heavily recruited by major colleges. BYU saw his potential and offered him a scholarship.

7. Freshman Year: In his freshman year, he averaged 7 points per game, showing glimpses of his scoring ability.

8. Breakout Season: During his junior year, he averaged 22.1 points per game, leading BYU to the NCAA Tournament's second round.

9. Senior Year: His senior year was legendary, averaging 28.9 points per game and earning numerous accolades.

10. National Player of the Year: In 2011, he won the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year award.

NBA and Professional Career

Fredette's professional career has taken him across the globe. Let's explore some intriguing facts about his journey.

11. NBA Draft: He was selected 10th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2011 NBA Draft but was traded to the Sacramento Kings.

12. Rookie Season: In his rookie season, he averaged 7.6 points per game, showing flashes of his scoring prowess.

13. Journeyman: Over the years, he played for several NBA teams, including the Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, and New York Knicks.

14. China Stint: In 2016, he signed with the Shanghai Sharks in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), where he became a fan favorite.

15. CBA MVP: In 2017, he won the CBA MVP award, averaging 37.6 points per game.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond basketball, Fredette has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some lesser-known facts.

16. Marriage: He married Whitney Wonnacott in 2012, whom he met while at BYU.

17. Fatherhood: The couple has two children, a son and a daughter, who often appear in his social media posts.

18. Philanthropy: He is actively involved in charitable work, including his foundation, which supports youth sports programs.

19. Music Lover: Fredette has a passion for music and enjoys playing the guitar in his free time.

20. Faith: As a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his faith plays a significant role in his life.

Records and Achievements

Fredette's career is filled with numerous records and achievements. Here are some of the most notable ones.

21. BYU Scoring Record: He holds the record for the most points scored in a single season at BYU, with 1,068 points in 2010-2011.

22. NCAA Tournament: He scored 52 points in a single NCAA Tournament game, one of the highest in tournament history.

23. CBA Records: In China, he set a record for the most points scored in a single game by a foreign player, with 75 points.

24. Three-Point Specialist: Known for his long-range shooting, he holds several records for three-pointers made in both college and professional leagues.

25. All-Star Appearances: He has been selected for multiple All-Star games, both in the NBA D-League and the CBA.

Legacy and Impact

Fredette's impact on the game of basketball extends beyond his stats. Here are some ways he has left a lasting legacy.

26. Cultural Icon: His scoring ability and humble demeanor have made him a beloved figure in both the U.S. and China.

27. Inspiration: He has inspired countless young athletes, particularly those from small towns, to pursue their basketball dreams.

28. Media Presence: His story has been featured in numerous documentaries and articles, highlighting his unique journey.

29. Youth Camps: He runs basketball camps for young players, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game.

30. Enduring Popularity: Despite the ups and downs of his career, he remains a popular figure among basketball fans worldwide.

Jimmer Fredette's Impact

Jimmer Fredette's journey through basketball has been nothing short of remarkable. From his college days at BYU, where he became a household name, to his professional career spanning the NBA and international leagues, Fredette's dedication and skill have left a lasting mark. His scoring ability, particularly his three-point shooting, has wowed fans and inspired many young athletes.

Fredette's influence extends beyond the court. His work ethic and perseverance serve as a testament to what can be achieved with passion and determination. Whether playing in the United States or overseas, Fredette's love for the game shines through, making him a beloved figure in the basketball community.

In short, Jimmer Fredette's story is one of talent, hard work, and inspiration. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players and fans alike.