Quincy Olivari's Remarkable NBA Preseason Story
The NBA preseason often serves as a battleground for aspiring players eager to make their mark, and Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, is no exception. His standout performance during the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors has captured attention and raised questions about his future in the league.
On an otherwise challenging night for the Lakers, who suffered a heavy 132-74 defeat to the Warriors in San Francisco, Olivari emerged as a beacon of hope. The young guard showcased his shooting prowess by scoring 22 points and grabbing seven rebounds. His efficiency from beyond the arc was particularly notable, hitting five of his nine attempts.
Across four preseason games, Olivari showed consistency and promise, averaging nearly nine points and maintaining a cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from three-point land. Such performances are invaluable for rookies like Olivari, who are battling to secure a spot on the team’s regular-season roster.
A Moment with a Legend
Beyond statistics and on-court performances, a personal highlight for Olivari was his interaction with NBA superstar Stephen Curry. Even though Curry did not participate in the game against the Lakers, his presence could still be felt, particularly by Olivari, who has long admired the Warriors’ ace.
"It's crazy because I've liked him since I was in like sixth grade. I don't even know what to say, man. Like, that's my favorite player ever," Olivari confessed, his voice tinged with the awe of a lifelong fan meeting his hero.
The encounter with Curry transcended a mere meeting. "The first thing he told me was like, 'I'm a big fan of your game,' and truth be told, I'm a big fan of him," Olivari shared, highlighting the mutual respect between the established star and the aspiring rookie. This exchange became even more memorable when Curry gifted Olivari a pair of signed shoes, a moment that resonated deeply with him.
Olivari’s connection to Curry runs deep. "I had his jersey -- he signed it twice. I used to sleep under that jersey. And like, I just wanted to be like him so badly," he recalled, painting a picture of a young fan who dreamt of emulating his idol. "Just to be able to meet him, him being able to have some respect for me, and then us to talk in the back -- he gave me a pair of his shoes and signed them. That meant the world to me, man."
The significance of this moment extends beyond the player himself. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," Olivari expressed, encapsulating the personal and familial importance of this experience.
Awaiting the Next Chapter
As Olivari awaits a decision regarding his spot on the Lakers' opening night roster, his preseason performances and personal milestones provide a compelling narrative for his future in the NBA. His journey reflects both the challenges and the unique opportunities that come with being an undrafted player, striving to carve out a place in the highly competitive world of professional basketball.
Quincy Olivari's story is a testament to persistence, passion, and the unifying love for the game. Whether he secures a roster spot with the Lakers or continues on a different path, his experience this preseason has already etched a memorable chapter in his budding career.