Chase Budinger
Competing in Major Volleyball Tournament
Cute Plans for Potential Winnings
Published October 9, 2025 12:30 AM PDT
TMZSports.com
Chase Budinger has returned to Southern California to participate in a premier volleyball tournament, sharing with TMZ Sports his exciting plans for any winnings he might earn.
The former NBA player, now making waves in the volleyball scene, is among several top athletes competing in the Newport Beach Volleyball Invitational, which commenced in Orange County, California on Tuesday.
The tournament kicks off with a 2-on-2 format, running until Saturday, followed by a 4-on-4 competition on Sunday.
Budinger mentions that the competition boasts some of the best players globally, with organizers promising a share of a substantial $550,000 prize pool for the victors.
At 37 years old, the Encinitas native revealed that if he clinches the championship, his plans for the prize money include hiring assistance for the new baby he and his wife are expecting later this winter.
“For me, it’s about saving up for a nanny or maybe a night nurse,” he expressed with a smile. “Something like that to help me catch some sleep when the baby arrives.”
TMZ.com
While the talent at Newport Beach may be a notch above what Chase faced a few months ago at the TMZ offices, he’s feeling confident. He shared that he and his partner, Miles Evans, have been fine-tuning their game through recent events.
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