Quincy Olivari Shines Despite Lakers' Preseason Finale Loss
The NBA preseason not only offers teams a chance to fine-tune their rosters but also serves as a proving ground for aspiring players. Among those seizing this opportunity is Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, who recently caught the attention of basketball enthusiasts and players alike during the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale in San Francisco. Despite a tough loss to the Golden State Warriors, Olivari's performance was a beacon of hope and potential.
A Standout Performance in San Francisco
In a game where the Lakers fell 132-74 to the Warriors, Olivari managed to emerge as a standout performer. Scoring 22 points and grabbing seven rebounds, his performance was impressive, given the mismatch on the scoreboard. Shooting 5-for-9 from the 3-point line, Olivari demonstrated not only his shooting prowess but also his potential to become a significant contributor in future contests.
Olivari's statistics from the entire preseason further underscore his readiness. Averaging nearly nine points across four games, his cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc showcases his consistency and capability to be a valuable asset for the Lakers as they refine their roster for the regular season.
An Unforgettable Encounter with a Childhood Hero
A notable moment for Olivari during the preseason was a chance meeting with his basketball idol, Stephen Curry. The Warriors' star, who did not play in the game against the Lakers, took the time to meet Olivari, an interaction that left the rookie in awe. Recalling the encounter, Olivari said, "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 acknowledgment from Curry was not just a personal moment of victory but also a professional one. "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. Such words from a player of Curry's stature offer not only encouragement but also validation for a young player's burgeoning career.
Olivari's admiration for Curry dates back to his childhood, highlighting the significance of their meeting. "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," Olivari confessed. To top it off, Curry gifted Olivari a pair of signed shoes, a gesture that Olivari described as life-changing. "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," reflected Olivari, underscoring the emotional impact of the experience.
Hoping for a Spot on the Roster
Despite the Lakers' offseason reinforcements, Olivari's impact in the preseason has certainly given the coaching staff something to ponder. Though he awaits the final decision on a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster, his performances have undoubtedly placed him on the radar. As Olivari continues to navigate the uncertainties of professional basketball, he knows that his efforts have not gone unnoticed, not least by Curry. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he reiterated, expressing the weight of personal milestones achieved so far.
As the NBA season approaches, Quincy Olivari’s journey is emblematic of the dreams and determination that fuel countless players striving for recognition. Whether or not he secures a spot on the Lakers' roster, his memorable preseason has already laid a foundation of promise for his future in professional basketball.