As the NBA preseason draws to a close, opportunities arise for aspiring players to showcase their abilities and make a compelling case for a spot on an NBA roster. For Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie hailing from Xavier, the preseason journey with the Los Angeles Lakers has been both a personal and professional milestone. Olivari's standout performance during the Lakers’ preseason finale against the formidable Golden State Warriors in San Francisco was a testament to his tenacity and skill.
The Lakers faced a challenging night, succumbing to a decisive 132-74 defeat against the Warriors. In the absence of Warriors' superstar Stephen Curry, who notably sat out the game, the spotlight shifted to emerging talents like Olivari. Seizing this opportunity, Olivari delivered an impressive performance, adding 22 points and securing seven rebounds. His sharpshooting ability was on full display as he went 5-for-9 from the 3-point range, demonstrating his potential as a valuable asset to the team.
Across four preseason games, Olivari maintained an average of nearly nine points, with a commendable cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc. Such statistics are indicative of his capability to influence the game offensively, an invaluable trait for a team seeking depth in its roster.
The post-game interaction between Olivari and Stephen Curry added an emotional layer to what was already a significant evening. Meeting Curry, his childhood idol, was an unexpected highlight for Olivari. "It's crazy because I've liked him since I was in like sixth grade," Olivari shared with emotion. "I don't even know what to say, man. Like, that's my favorite player ever." This encounter not only marked a moment of personal achievement but also served as a source of inspiration for Olivari, further fueling his aspirations.
Curry's acknowledgment of Olivari's talent was both humbling and motivating. Reflecting on their conversation, 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." Such mutual recognition between a seasoned NBA legend and an emerging player underscores the beauty of sportsmanship and respect within the NBA community.
The significance of this interaction was magnified by Curry's gesture of gifting Olivari a pair of signed shoes. For Olivari, this was more than just a token of appreciation; it was a dream realized. "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," he revealed, highlighting the profound impact Curry has had on his basketball journey.
In these moments, Olivari's reflections draw attention away from the on-court rivalry to a more personal narrative of growth and heroism. "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." Such heartfelt words illuminate the strong emotional connection athletes develop with their idols, driving their passion and dedication within the sport.
As Olivari awaits the Lakers' decision on their opening night roster, he carries both the thrill of performance and the warmth of a personal accomplishment. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he shared, encapsulating the profound personal impact of this preseason phase.
While the outcome of his professional aspirations with the Lakers remains uncertain, Olivari's journey during the preseason has carved out moments of triumph, recognition, and genuine admiration, etching an unforgettable chapter in his burgeoning career.