Olivari Shines in Lakers Preseason Finale Despite Loss
In a season-defining moment for undrafted rookie Quincy Olivari, the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco during their preseason finale. Though the scoreboard showed a decisive 132-74 win for the Warriors, Olivari found his own victory on the court, showcasing a performance that could potentially earn him a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster.
A Showcase of Talent
Olivari, a product of Xavier, demonstrated his shooting prowess and determination in a game that, while challenging, offered a glimpse into his potential. The rookie contributed a noteworthy 22 points and dominated the boards with seven rebounds. His shooting accuracy was a testament to his skillset, as he sank 5 of his 9 attempts from beyond the 3-point arc.
Throughout the preseason, Olivari has consistently displayed his knack for scoring, averaging nearly nine points per game. His cumulative shooting performance, landing 8-for-14 from the 3-point line over four games, has set him apart in a roster filled with aspiring talent.
Meeting a Childhood Idol
However, the highlight of the preseason showdown for Olivari extended beyond the court. His performance caught the eye of none other than Stephen Curry, who, while not playing in the game, made a significant impact off the court. During the game, Olivari had the unique opportunity to meet his hero, a moment he describes with awe and reverence.
"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 expressed, encapsulating the excitement of his encounter. For Olivari, meeting Curry was the culmination of years of admiration. "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."
A Gesture Remembered
The interaction went beyond words, as Curry gifted Olivari with a pair of signed shoes, a gesture that left an indelible mark on the young player's heart. Reflecting on the experience, Olivari shared a poignant memory: "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."
For Olivari, the encounter was not just a meeting; it was a moment of mutual respect and acknowledgment from a player he greatly admired. "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 remarked. The significance of Curry's gift was not lost on him, as he noted, "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot."
The Path Forward
As Olivari awaits the decision on his position with the Lakers, his impressive performance during the preseason, combined with a personal milestone of meeting his idol, has undeniably set the stage for a promising career in the NBA. Whether or not he secures a spot on the roster, Olivari's journey thus far exemplifies resilience and the pursuit of dreams.
Quincy Olivari’s story is a reminder of the unpredictability and the magic of sports, where a game is as much about personal narratives and dreams fulfilled as it is about the final score. In the end, Olivari's meeting with Curry and his standout performance offer a beacon of hope and inspiration for every aspiring player entering the league.