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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (May 19, 2026) – After years of battling on opposite sides of the net, two of American beach volleyball’s biggest stars are officially joining forces as Trevor Crabb and Chase Budinger announce a new partnership.The pairing brings together elite international experience, world-class athleticism, and a shared vision of contending for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
With beach volleyball continuing to grow globally ahead of the LA28 Games, the new team represents another major step forward for the United States’ depth and competitiveness internationally.
Budinger, a 2024 Olympian and former NBA player, has quickly emerged as one of the top American beach volleyball players on the international stage following his qualification for the Paris Games.Crabb, an AVP MVP and one of the sport’s most respected defenders, has long established himself as one of beach volleyball’s fiercest competitors and most electrifying personalities.
“I wanted to partner with Chase because I truly believe he’s one of the top players in the U.S. and internationally,” said Crabb. “What he accomplished, making the Olympics, speaks for itself. Starting this partnership now gives us time to build something special heading into LA 2028.”
For Budinger, the timing and long-term opportunity made the decision clear.
“This felt like the right time to make the move before the next Olympic cycle really ramps up,” said Budinger. “Trevor has competed at the top level for a long time, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.”
While the two have spent years battling as opponents, both believe their competitive mindset and experience will translate quickly into success as teammates.
“We’re both extremely competitive, and I think that’s going to push us forward,” Crabb said. “We each know what it takes to compete at a high level, and now we get the chance to bring that mentality together every day.”
Budinger believes the partnership’s chemistry will come from their shared understanding of the game and commitment to representing the United States at the highest level.
“Our experience and volleyball IQ will help us right away,” he said. “We’re going to challenge each other constantly in training and competition, and that’s what great teams do. Representing Team USA is something we both take seriously.”
Beyond immediate results, the partnership also represents longevity, leadership, and continued evolution within the sport.
“We want younger players and fans to see that growth doesn’t stop after a certain point,” said Crabb. “We both feel like there’s still another level we can reach.”
Crabb and Budinger are set to debut this season, instantly becoming the professional circuit’s most anticipated pairing. By combining Crabb’s relentless championship pedigree with Budinger’s elite athleticism, the duo isn’t just eyeing the podium; they’re positioning themselves as the face of the American charge toward a home-turf Olympics at LA28.