For Quincy Olivari, a rookie with unyielding determination and an unbreakable passion for basketball, the NBA preseason stands as a crucial platform to showcase his potential. An undrafted rookie hailing from Xavier, Olivari has taken the preseason as an opportunity not just to play, but to excel, making a significant impact during the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale.
In the highly anticipated matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Olivari's performance turned heads, even though the final score of 132-74 was not in the Lakers' favor. The young guard scored an impressive 22 points, a testament to his hard work and skills that outshine his undrafted status. His contribution didn't stop at scoring; Olivari also pulled down seven rebounds, showcasing his all-around game.
One aspect of Olivari's gameplay that caught considerable attention was his sharpshooting ability. Against the Warriors, he shot an efficient 5 for 9 from the three-point line. Throughout the preseason, he built a solid reputation with a cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc, averaging nearly nine points per game over four appearances. These statistics not only underscore his scoring ability but also his potential to contribute significantly to any team he plays for.
Unforgettable Interaction with a Childhood Idol
The game against the Warriors was memorable for Olivari not only because of his individual performance but also due to a personal dream coming true. Despite Stephen Curry's absence from the game, the Warriors' superstar made a lasting impact on Olivari. Meeting Curry was a dream come true for the rookie, who had admired the basketball icon from a young age.
"It's crazy because I've liked him since I was in like sixth grade," Olivari shared, reflecting on his encounter with Curry. "I don't even know what to say, man. Like, that's my favorite player ever." It's no secret that a meeting with a childhood hero can profoundly influence a young player's career, and for Olivari, this meeting was particularly special.
The admiration was mutual, with Curry expressing his appreciation for Olivari's game. "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 recounted, his voice tinted with excitement and disbelief. Such an endorsement from a player of Curry's caliber is a substantial boost for any aspiring NBA player.
A Cherished Gift
Olivari's memories of Curry extend beyond admiration, having akin to a fan with the jersey of his basketball idol—a jersey that was signed not once, but twice. "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 reminisced.
The interaction held sentimental value beyond on-court admiration. After their meeting, Curry gifted Olivari a pair of signed shoes. "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," recounted Olivari. For a young player aspiring to leave his mark on the NBA, such gestures resonate deeply and create lasting memories.
Reflecting on the emotional magnitude of the experience, Olivari conveyed, "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot." Such moments highlight the profound impact of idols on the next generation of athletes, serving as motivation and inspiration.
The Road Ahead
With preseason drawing to a close, Olivari now eagerly awaits decisions regarding his place on the Lakers’ opening night roster. His performances during these initial games have created a compelling case for him. While the competition is fierce and the odds are challenging, his dedication and the prowess reflected in his preseason endeavors keep his dreams very much alive.
Whether or not he secures a spot immediately, Quincy Olivari’s journey and his opportunity to stand alongside, and be acknowledged by, a player of Stephen Curry’s standing is a profound reminder of the human stories that truly define sports. His story is one of passion, grit, and the undying quest to achieve, making him a player to watch as his career unfolds. His narrative encapsulates the incredible potential within the NBA’s young talents, setting the stage for many more chapters to come.