Undrafted Talent Shines in Lakers' Preseason Finale
As the NBA preseason winds down and the high stakes of regular season play come into sharp focus, the Los Angeles Lakers may have uncovered a sparkling gem in one of their undrafted rookies, Quincy Olivari. Despite a challenging 132-74 loss to the Golden State Warriors in their preseason finale in San Francisco, Olivari's performance was a beacon of potential amidst a roster searching for depth.
Quincy Olivari, an unheralded rookie from Xavier, showcased his burgeoning talent in this decisive preseason match-up. While the Lakers walked away with a lop-sided defeat against a formidable Warriors squad, Olivari’s statistics tell a different story. The rookie guard compiled an impressive 22 points on the night and added seven rebounds to his stat line, demonstrating his ability to make an impact on both ends of the court.
Shooting Stardom in San Francisco
Olivari's performance was highlighted by his sharpshooting skills. He netted 5 out of 9 attempts from the three-point line—a testament to his offensive capabilities and a promising sign for a Lakers team perpetually in search of effective perimeter scorers. Over the course of four preseason games, Olivari posted an average nearing nine points each outing, with a cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc. Such numbers highlight his consistency and potential as a reliable outside shooter.
Notably, Warriors’ superstar Stephen Curry sat out the game, sparking intrigue about how Olivari might have fared against the elite defense of the NBA's top shooters. Nonetheless, the spotlight was not entirely absent from Olivari’s night, as he had a memorable off-court encounter with Curry.
A Moment with a Childhood Hero
Meeting Stephen Curry during the preseason was an experience Olivari cherishes deeply—a unique moment where admiration from his childhood intersected with his burgeoning professional journey. "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, recounting the sentimental value of the meeting.
Curry, known for his humility and generosity, extended his admiration for the young guard'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 shared, echoing the mutual respect borne out of this encounter.
Such meetings are rare, but they underscore the essential narrative threads that weave through sports: dreams realized and inspiration reciprocated. "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, illustrating the genuine admiration he holds for Curry.
To top it off, Curry gifted Olivari a pair of signed shoes, symbolizing a nod of respect from an established superstar to an aspiring talent. "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 recounted, his gratitude palpable.
Awaiting the Call
With the regular season looming, Olivari finds himself on the cusp of a significant professional milestone, awaiting word on whether he will claim a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster. The decision will ultimately shape the young guard's immediate future in the NBA. For now, Olivari remains hopeful, carrying the confidence of his preseason performances and the personal interactions that have painted his journey so far.
"My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," Olivari admitted, reflecting the personal joyful pressure and hope in making his NBA dream a reality. This preseason has certainly been a time of learning and aspiration for Olivari, who, undeterred by status or draft position, has carved a narrative of resilience and potential that awaits greater acknowledgment.