In the intense landscape of the NBA preseason, where dreams hang in the balance between the draft and a shot at the roster, Quincy Olivari is carving his path with noteworthy aplomb, even amid a significant Lakers loss to the Golden State Warriors. As an undrafted rookie from Xavier, Olivari has seized the opportunity presented by the preseason's proving grounds to showcase his potential value to the Lakers organization.
Olivari's recent performance against the Warriors in San Francisco was a standout moment in the preseason, despite the team's 132-74 defeat. He contributed 22 points and collected seven rebounds, demonstrating his capabilities on the court with a shooting prowess that included hitting 5 of 9 from three-point range. His efforts not only signified personal success but also underscored the sometimes-overlooked narratives within the drama of preseason games.
Throughout the preseason, Olivari has consistently shown promise, averaging nearly nine points over four games and maintaining an impressive cumulative shooting record from beyond the arc at 8-for-14. Such statistics do not automatically secure a spot on the coveted roster, yet they certainly place Olivari on the radar as decisions loom ahead of opening night.
Yet, it was not just his performance that marked Olivari’s night as memorable. The game held personal significance due to an unexpected encounter with NBA superstar Stephen Curry. Curry, a personal idol of Olivari’s since his formative years, was absent from the court during the game but took time for a backstage meeting with the aspiring 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 reflected, capturing the extraordinary nature of his encounter.
For Olivari, the interaction was not merely a professional milestone but a deeply personal moment that merged aspiration with reality. "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," he recounted, beaming at the unexpected mutual recognition from his cherished role model. Such an exchange offers more than temporary excitement; it potentially fuels a rookie's resolve to excel when faced with similar challenges going forward.
The moment was made even more unforgettable when Curry gifted Olivari a pair of signed sneakers, fueling the rookie’s admiration further. "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 divulged, painting a picture of childhood idolatry that many NBA rookies share but not all get the chance to experience in reality.
Meeting with Curry offered validation and an emotional high that highlighted Olivari's passion for the game and personal drive. "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, hinting at the profound impact such interactions can have on the psyche of young athletes striving for greatness.
This story might have a humble beginning in a preseason game, but its layers tell of ambition, idolization, and personal milestones. As Olivari awaits the decision regarding his potential place on the Lakers’ opening night roster, his performance and cherished encounter with Curry serve as poignant reminders of both the professional and personal journeys underlying the glamorous facade of the NBA.
"My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," Olivari shared, his gratitude reverberating through each word, underscoring the family ties and personal sacrifices that often remain unseen to the broader public. What lies ahead for Olivari in the short term remains undecided, but what is certain is the impression he left on the preseason and a legendary player alike.