Quincy Olivari Shines Despite Lakers' Preseason Struggles
For many young and undrafted players in the NBA, the preseason represents not just preparation, but opportunity—a chance to prove their mettle in hopes of securing a coveted roster spot. Among those seizing the moment is Quincy Olivari, a promising rookie out of Xavier, who is determined to leave his mark with the Los Angeles Lakers during this critical evaluation period.
As the Lakers wrapped up their preseason endeavors with a tough outing against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco, Olivari emerged as a bright spot in an otherwise challenging game for the team. The Lakers suffered a heavy defeat, falling 132-74, but Olivari was a standout performer on the court. He contributed significantly with 22 points and seven rebounds. Demonstrating his sharpshooting skills, Olivari hit an impressive 5 of 9 attempts from beyond the arc, showcasing his potential as a valuable shooter.
Throughout the duration of the preseason, Olivari averaged close to nine points per game, complementing his eye-catching shooting with a cumulative 8-for-14 record from three-point range. His performances have certainly caught the attention of those evaluating talent and potential impact players for the Lakers' opening night roster decisions.
A Memorable Encounter with a Basketball Icon
Beyond the stat sheet, Olivari experienced a particularly remarkable and personal moment during the game against the Warriors. Despite the absence of Stephen Curry from the lineup, Olivari had the chance to meet his longtime basketball idol. Reflecting on this opportunity, Olivari shared the admiration he has carried for Curry over many years. "It's crazy because I've liked him since I was in like sixth grade," Olivari expressed. "I don't even know what to say, man. Like, that's my favorite player ever."
The encounter became even more special when Curry offered mutual respect towards Olivari's burgeoning career. "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 words from a player of Curry's caliber undoubtedly bolster a rookie's confidence and drive.
The exchange culminated in Curry gifting Olivari a pair of signed shoes—a gesture that held profound meaning for the young player. "I had his jersey—he signed it twice. I used to sleep under that jersey," Olivari recalled. "And like, I just wanted to be like him so badly." Receiving the signed shoes solidified a childhood dream for Olivari, as he described, "Just to be able to meet him, him being able to have some respect for me, and then us to talk in the back—that meant the world to me, man."
Awaiting the Next Step
As the preseason concludes, Olivari's journey continues with anticipation as the Lakers deliberate over their final roster. The decision will determine whether Olivari carries the momentum and experience he has gained into the regular season, marking the beginning of what could be a fruitful NBA career.
"My dad knows, my mom knows—like, it just means a lot," Olivari reflected, underscoring the impact of this pivotal moment not only in his professional life but also personally.
For the Lakers, Olivari's standout performances may just be the spark the team needs to navigate a competitive NBA season. Regardless of the final roster decisions, Quincy Olivari has already made a compelling case for his future in the league, capturing the hearts of fans and icons alike with his dedication and play.