Aspiring Lakers Rookie Quincy Olivari Shines in Preseason Finale Despite Team's Heavy Loss
In the world of the National Basketball Association, the preseason stage is often a platform where new talents emerge, hoping to carve out a place for themselves on an NBA roster. For Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, this stage offered a critical opportunity to showcase his potential. During the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco, Olivari delivered a standout performance that may prove decisive in his quest for a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster.
The final score of the game might not have been in the Lakers' favor—with the Warriors triumphing 132-74—but Olivari's individual contribution was a beacon of hope amid the defeat. The young hopeful managed to net 22 points and grab seven rebounds, making a significant impression during the otherwise challenging outing for the Lakers.
Shooting prowess is often a key measure of a player's offensive capabilities in today's NBA landscape, and Olivari demonstrated his competence from beyond the arc. He shot an impressive 5 for 9 from the three-point range against the Warriors, bolstering his reputation as a reliable shooter. Over the course of four preseason games, Olivari averaged nearly nine points and showcased his sharp shooting ability with a cumulative record of 8-for-14 from three-point range. These numbers reflect his potential impact in a league where three-point shooting is increasingly essential.
A Memorable Interaction with a Living Legend
In addition to his on-court exploits, Olivari's preseason experience was marked by a special encounter with one of his basketball idols—Stephen Curry. Despite Curry not playing in the game, he met with Olivari post-game, creating a memory that the rookie is unlikely to forget.
"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, his admiration for Curry clear and genuine. Their meeting only enhanced the experience, as Curry expressed his appreciation for Olivari's game, telling him, "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 mutual appreciation was sealed with a tangible token of Curry's respect—a pair of signed shoes. Reflecting on this moment, Olivari said, "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."
On the Cusp of a Breakthrough
For Olivari, meeting Curry was not just about the thrill of encountering a childhood hero; it symbolized his burgeoning entry into the elite realm of professional basketball. Such experiences echo through his personal life, highlighting the significance that family plays in his journey. "My dad knows, my mom knows—like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he reflected, emphasizing the emotional weight attached to his achievements and interactions.
As the Lakers consider finalizing their roster for the season opener, Olivari's preseason performance adds an extra layer of intrigue. His ability to contribute significantly, even in high-stakes situations against seasoned teams like the Warriors, showcases his readiness to compete at the highest level. With his scoring ability and mental fortitude already in view, Quincy Olivari could be on the brink of earning his place among the NBA elite.
Moments like these mark the beginning chapters of many an NBA career, and for Quincy Olivari, the journey is just beginning. Balancing personal aspirations and professional realities, he stands poised on the edge of potential greatness, emboldened by the faith of those who matter most and moments that may define the trajectory of his career. Only time will tell if his name finds its permanent place on the Lakers' roster, but one thing is certain: Quincy Olivari's story is only just unfolding, one impressive chapter at a time.