The Rise of Quincy Olivari: A Preseason Standout with a Legendary Encounter
As the NBA preseason offers a stage for aspiring talents to showcase their skills, Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, has emerged as a notable performer. During the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco, Olivari put on a memorable display even as the team suffered a hefty defeat, losing 132-74.
Performance and Potential
Despite the loss, Olivari’s individual performance shone brightly. Scoring 22 points and grabbing seven rebounds, the rookie showed a glimpse of his potential at the professional level. His shooting prowess was particularly impressive, as he hit 5 of 9 from beyond the arc against the Warriors. Throughout the four preseason games, Olivari managed to average nearly nine points per game while maintaining an impressive cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from three-point range.
With the regular season looming, Olivari remains on the fringe, eagerly awaiting a decision on whether he will secure a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster. His performance in the preseason has certainly made a compelling case for inclusion.
An Unforgettable Meeting
Beyond his on-court accomplishments, one of the standout moments for Olivari during the preseason was his encounter with NBA superstar Stephen Curry. Curry, who did not play in the game against the Lakers, took the time to meet Olivari, an interaction that left a lasting impression on the rookie. "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 shared, highlighting the personal significance of the moment.
The mutual respect shared between the two players is evident. Olivari recounted, "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." This meeting was more than just a passing interaction for Olivari; it was a culmination of years of admiration and a moment that resonated deeply with him.
From Fan to Peer
Olivari's connection to Curry extends beyond admiration from afar. "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 reminisced. The symbolic passing of the torch, with Curry gifting him a pair of signed shoes, was a gesture that left Olivari almost speechless. "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."
A Dream Realized
The encounter was not only a highlight for Olivari but also a cherished moment for those close to him. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he expressed, underscoring the emotional weight of the experience for both him and his family.
As Olivari stands at the precipice of his NBA career, his journey through the preseason has been marked by impressive performances and unforgettable experiences. While the dream of securing a place on the Lakers' roster remains just out of reach, the young player has already achieved a personal milestone by earning the respect of a player he has idolized for so long. Quincy Olivari, undrafted but undaunted, has made an indelible mark, and his journey is just beginning.