Quincy Olivari's Unforgettable Preseason Moment
For aspiring NBA players, the preseason is a crucial time to make a lasting impression. Among those seizing this opportunity is Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie hailing from Xavier. Olivari has made waves with his performances, particularly in the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors.
The Lakers may have faced a humbling defeat with a score of 132-74, but Olivari offered a glimmer of hope for the future with his remarkable individual effort. Against a team known for its dominant performances, Olivari managed to stand out, scoring 22 points and grabbing seven rebounds, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level.
His shooting was particularly noteworthy. Olivari shot 5 for 9 from the 3-point range, a testament to his sharp-shooting skills and composure under pressure. Throughout four preseason games, he averaged nearly nine points per game and maintained a commendable cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc.
Meeting a Hero
Yet, this wasn’t just another game for Olivari. It was an opportunity to meet his idol, Stephen Curry, who was not playing in the match. For Olivari, a fan of Curry since childhood, the encounter was surreal. "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, reflecting the awe of meeting someone he's admired for so long.
The mutual respect between both players was clear. "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 revealed. This moment was a testament to Olivari's burgeoning presence in the basketball world and provided him with a motivational boost to continue pursuing his NBA dreams.
A Cherished Memento
The encounter was further immortalized when Curry gifted Olivari a pair of signed shoes. The emotional significance of this gesture was not lost on the young athlete. "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," Olivari expressed with gratitude and disbelief.
The young rookie's admiration for Curry extends beyond the court. Recalling his childhood memories, Olivari shared, "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." These personal anecdotes highlight the profound impact Curry has had on Olivari's life and career.
The Road Ahead
As the preseason wraps up, Olivari finds himself anxiously awaiting a decision regarding his place on the Lakers’ opening night roster. His standout performances in the preseason have certainly made a case for his inclusion. Still, the final decision remains in the hands of the Lakers management.
For now, Olivari clings tightly to the encouragement and respect shown by one of basketball's greatest players. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he concluded, encapsulating the profound personal and professional milestone of meeting his hero and earning his respect.
Quincy Olivari's journey is just beginning, but the undrafted rookie has already made a significant impression. Whether he secures a spot on the Lakers roster or not, his talent and determination have set him on a promising path in professional basketball.