The NBA preseason serves as a proving ground for many aspiring players, offering them a platform to demonstrate their skills under the bright lights. Among those attempting to secure a place in professional basketball's competitive landscape is Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie hailing from Xavier. Olivari recently made headlines with his standout performance during the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco.
Despite the Lakers suffering a significant defeat, losing 132-74 to the Warriors, it was Olivari who shined on the court. The rookie produced an impressive 22 points and collected seven rebounds, showcasing his potential as a valuable asset to the Lakers. Especially noteworthy was his shooting prowess; Olivari connected with five of his nine attempts from beyond the arc. Over the course of four preseason games, he averaged nearly nine points, with a cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from three-point range, solidifying his reputation as a capable shooter.
A Memorable Encounter
During the game against the Warriors, legendary NBA star Stephen Curry was notably absent from the playing roster. However, Olivari had the unique opportunity to meet his idol, a moment that left an indelible mark on the young player's budding career. Reflecting on the encounter, Olivari shared a personal anecdote about his admiration for Curry, stating, "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 meeting between Olivari and Curry went beyond a simple handshake. Curry expressed his appreciation for Olivari’s game, a sentiment that left the young player both speechless and deeply honored. 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 words from a basketball icon like Curry hold profound significance for an emerging player like Olivari.
A Token of Respect
In a gesture that underscored the mutual respect between the two athletes, Curry presented Olivari with a pair of autographed shoes. The significance of this moment was not lost on Olivari, who had long admired Curry 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 recalled, highlighting the deep personal connection he felt to Curry and his career.
Receiving such a token is more than just a hallmark for Olivari; it is a deeply validating experience that reverberates beyond the confines of a basketball court. "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," he expressed. The meaningful interaction also resonated with Olivari's family. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he added, emphasizing the extent to which this encounter will be cherished within his household.
The Road Ahead
As Quincy Olivari awaits the decision on whether he will secure a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster, he can take solace in the fact that his preseason efforts have not gone unnoticed. His performance on the court has proven that he can compete at a high level, and his encounter with Curry has fortified his resolve to pursue his NBA dreams. For fans and those within the NBA ecosystem, Olivari’s journey provides a reminder of the dedication and passion that underpin the sport, and his story will be one to follow as he continues to carve out his place in the league.