The world of basketball may be exhilarating with slam dunks and 3-pointers, but for Jimmer Fredette and his wife, Whitney, the basketball court is not the only place where they're creating a legacy. Even more amazing than the professional athletic career Jimmer has created, this family man has created a beautiful life with Whitney and their 3 young children.
Jimmer's name and story has been well-documented throughout the world, his legacy living on to inspire future generations. Has your story been documented too? The Fredettes are taking their family values and bringing them to RootsTech 2024 as Jimmer shows you how to take your life memories and document them to last for generations to come.
Join us on Saturday, March 2, 2024, to learn from Jimmer! Children ages 8–14 will be able to participate in a basketball shootout and meet and greet in the expo hall following the class!
Jimmer and Whitney: From Athletes to Sweethearts!
Speaking of family—and our RootsTech theme of “REMEMBER”—let’s remember back to the beginning of the Fredette family's story, which starts at the heart of college basketball at Brigham Young University. Jimmer was a standout point guard for the BYU Cougars men's basketball team, carving out one of the most renowned athletic legacies on campus to this day.
Meanwhile, Whitney, his future wife, was making her own claim to fame as a BYU cheerleader, a very sought-after athletic role at the university.
The stars aligned for these two to meet and begin their courtship, and they eventually married in the Denver Colorado Temple a few years later in 2012. College sweethearts at the core, the Fredettes' heartwarming story didn’t end there!
Fast forward to present day, Jimmer and Whitney have grown their home team to include 3 sweet children. Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado, their home is complete with the joyful chaos that comes with balancing both a professional athletic career and a family.
Jimmer’s Renowned Basketball Career
Where did Jimmer Fredette grow up? The beginning of this renowned basketball journey starts with a young boy from Upstate New York who turned many heads on the court. The basketball prodigy kept garnering attention throughout Jimmer’s adolescent years, and as a star on his Glens Falls High School basketball team, Jimmer set his sights on NCAA Division 1 basketball.
When Jimmer joined the Brigham Young University men's basketball team in 2007, no one could have predicted just how impactful his college basketball career would turn out to be, not just for the university but for NCAA history. Jimmer, now known for having one of the best college basketball careers of all time at BYU from 2007–2011, is a name that is revered on BYU campus and across the nation.
Leaving his legacy at BYU, Jimmer headed to the NBA with the Sacramento Kings in California. After his stint in the NBA, Jimmer took his unparalleled and unique basketball talent across the globe to China, with the Shanghai Sharks. Not only did his professional career thrive in China, the unique cultural perspective he gained added a new depth to Jimmer’s personal narrative.
After riding the wave of super stardom in China, Jimmer eventually returned home to his family after the pandemic restrictions and long distance took their toll.
As the world of professional basketball evolves, so does Jimmer's game. "Is Jimmer Fredette still playing basketball?" you may ask. Be assured that not a drop of talent is wasted with this athlete, as Jimmer is currently dominating in the realm of professional 3x3 basketball. The fast-paced, dynamic nature of this basketball format perfectly complements Jimmer's playing style, proving that his passion for the game continues to burn brightly. Over the past year and a half, Jimmer has traveled the world with his team to climb in the rankings to reach the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Paris Olympic games next summer!
Jimmer to Teach a Beginner’s Session at RootsTech 2024
Is RootsTech 2024 on your calendar this year? Because it sure has made it on the Fredette family calendar. You may remember that last year's event featured a dedicated "Are We Related" page for Jimmer, sparking curiosity and connections among attendees. This year, the intrigue persists, and attendees can actually come and participate in a class with Jimmer himself!
While basketball and athletics may be their professional calling, the Fredettes are eager to explore another facet of their identity at RootsTech: their family history. Jimmer and Whitney will be participating in a beginner’s class on Saturday, March 2, of RootsTech.
Jimmer will be sharing insights on how to add memories to your FamilySearch family tree and the importance and impact of doing so. This session promises practical tips, personal anecdotes, and a unique opportunity to interact with the Fredettes. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions!
Following their session, Jimmer and Whitney invite you to join them at the General Session of RootsTech at 11 AM MST.
Shoot Hoops with Jimmer at Free Family Discovery Day
Sign up your children for some fun in the basketball shootout competition with Jimmer himself (ages 8–14)! This will be happening Saturday afternoon in the expo hall at the Salt Palace Convention Center.
For those eager to meet Jimmer and Whitney, come to the expo hall, where you will have the opportunity to meet the family after the basketball shootout game. There will be no shortage of family-friendly activities and games during the Free Family Discovery Day, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all ages.
Jimmer Fredette and his wife, Whitney, will bring a unique blend of sportsmanship, family values, and a passion for heritage to RootsTech 2024. Whether you're a basketball enthusiast, a family history buff, or someone seeking to connect with your roots, this year's event promises an unforgettable experience. Join the Fredettes in March for a slam dunk of a time, where the worlds of sports, family, and heritage collide in a celebration of shared stories and connections. Get ready to be part of something truly extraordinary at RootsTech 2024!
What Is RootsTech?
RootsTech is a place to learn, be inspired, and make connections through family history. Hosted by FamilySearch and sponsored by other leading genealogy organizations, we have hundreds of expert classes, tips and tricks videos, and inspiring stories that can help you experience family history like never before. Visit our on-demand learning library, or make plans to join us for our next virtual or in-person conference event.
