Quincy Olivari: A Bright Spot in Lakers' Preseason Struggle
The NBA preseason is a proving ground, where aspiring players have the opportunity to showcase their talents in hopes of securing a coveted spot on an NBA roster. For Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, this period has been crucial in demonstrating his potential to the Los Angeles Lakers.
In the Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco, Olivari stood out with an impressive performance, despite the team suffering a lopsided defeat, 132-74. The loss may have overshadowed the evening, but Olivari's individual accomplishments caught attention. He put up 22 points and pulled down seven rebounds, providing a glimpse of his potential moving forward.
A Stellar Performance
Olivari's shooting was particularly noteworthy as he made 5 of 9 attempts from the three-point line against the Warriors, showcasing his capability to contribute from long range. Across four preseason games, Olivari averaged nearly nine points per game, with a cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc. This level of play spotlights his scoring ability, a vital asset for any team looking for depth in shooting.
The game was missing a star element, as Stephen Curry did not take the floor for the Warriors. However, the absence of Curry did not dampen the significance of the event for Olivari. The young player had an unforgettable experience initiated by his interaction with his idol.
A Meeting with a Hero
For Olivari, the opportunity to meet Stephen Curry was a highlight exceeding the outcome of any single match. Olivari shared his heartfelt thoughts, stating, "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." The admiration was mutual, as Curry expressed his appreciation for Olivari's game. "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 recounted.
Beyond the exchange of words, Curry made a gesture that Olivari will cherish for a lifetime. He presented the rookie with a pair of signed shoes, a moment that Olivari described as a dream come true. "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," said Olivari, reflecting on his long-standing admiration.
This moment was more than just a meeting; it was an affirmation of Olivari's hard work and dedication to his craft. "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," Olivari shared, emphasizing the significance of the encounter.
A Future Uncertain
As the preseason concludes, the focus shifts to how this performance will influence Olivari's chances of earning a spot on the Lakers' opening night roster. Despite the uncertainty, the interaction with Curry provided a boost of confidence and a memory that Olivari will carry beyond the preseason. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he expressed, encapsulating the emotional gravity of this pivotal moment in his career.
For Quincy Olivari, the preseason was more than just games played and statistics recorded; it was a demonstration of potential and a realization of dreams—all intertwined with the tiered fabric of NBA lore. As he awaits decisions that will chart his professional journey, Olivari has already won the admiration of one of basketball's greatest, something no final score can overshadow.