Quincy Olivari’s Remarkable Preseason Journey
The NBA preseason serves as a crucial testing ground for aspiring talents eager to secure a spot in the league. Among those to watch was Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie who emerged from Xavier with aspirations of making a name for himself. In the climactic showdown of the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors, Olivari delivered a performance that resonated well beyond the hardwood.
Despite the Lakers suffering a lopsided defeat against the Warriors, finishing with a scoreline of 132-74 in San Francisco, Olivari shone brightly amidst the gloom of the outcome. The rookie recorded an impressive 22 points and pulled down seven rebounds, making a firm case for his capabilities on the professional stage. Crucially, Olivari demonstrated his prowess from beyond the arc, shooting 5 for 9 from the 3-point range—a feat that captured the attention of the league’s enthusiasts and insiders alike.
Consistent Performance Across Preseason Games
Quincy Olivari’s standout performance wasn’t just a one-off display. Over the course of four preseason games, he averaged nearly nine points, establishing himself as a reliable contributor. His cumulative record of 8-for-14 from the 3-point range showcased his shooting accuracy, a skill that NBA teams highly covet. Such consistency is not only key to earning a spot on a team's roster but also critical in raising a player's stock in a league teeming with talent.
A Memorable Encounter with Stephen Curry
The highlight of Olivari’s preseason was not just limited to his performance against the Warriors—it extended to a personal milestone off the court. In a heartwarming encounter, Olivari met his childhood idol, Stephen Curry, even though Curry did not feature in the game against the Lakers. For Olivari, meeting Curry was a dream realized, an encounter that he later recounted with visible joy. "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," he shared, encapsulating the awe and admiration he felt.
Curry’s words were equally memorable. "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. Such mutual respect between the rookie and the NBA superstar is rare and speaks volumes about Olivari's potential as noted by a seasoned player like Curry.
A Gift to Cherish
The encounter did not conclude without a tangible memento. Stephen Curry gifted a pair of signed shoes to Olivari, a gesture that carried immense sentimental value. "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 expressed. The significance of this meeting extended beyond the individual, evoking pride and emotion within Olivari’s family. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he added.
Looking Ahead
As the regular season looms, Olivari’s fate hangs in the balance with a decision pending on whether he will secure a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster. His performances in the preseason, combined with the character and humility he displayed off the court, have already marked his journey as a noteworthy narrative. In the high-stakes world of professional basketball, Quincy Olivari’s story is a testament to the perseverance and passion that drives undrafted players to forge their path to success.
The NBA stage is wide and demanding, and while Olivari awaits his next chapter, the memories and endorsements he has already amassed speak highly of his potential. Whether or not his journey continues with the Lakers, Quincy Olivari has undeniably etched his name in the fabric of the preseason, with many eager to see where his talents will take him next.