As the NBA preseason comes to a close, it often serves as a proving ground for undrafted rookies aiming to make an impact and secure a spot on an NBA roster. This season, Quincy Olivari, a rookie from Xavier, seized that opportunity in a memorable moment that underscores the unpredictability and magic of sports.
The Los Angeles Lakers wrapped up their preseason with a bout against the Golden State Warriors, a game that ended in a 132-74 loss for the Lakers. Despite the defeat, Olivari shone brightly, demonstrating his potential as a valuable asset on the court. Olivari, undeterred by the bright lights and the formidable opponent, scored an impressive 22 points and pulled down seven rebounds. His performance was accentuated by his efficiency from beyond the arc, converting five of his nine attempts.
Throughout the preseason, Olivari showed consistency, averaging nearly nine points per game and showcasing a remarkable shooting touch with a cumulative 8-for-14 record from three-point range. These numbers not only bolster his case for securing a spot on the Lakers’ roster but also highlight his ability to adapt and excel in high-pressure situations.
A Childhood Dream Realized
However, the night held more than just an impressive stat line for Olivari. The game provided him with an unforgettable personal milestone: the opportunity to meet his basketball idol, Stephen Curry. The two-time NBA MVP did not participate in the game, yet his presence loomed large over the evening. For Olivari, this wasn't just an encounter with a fellow player; it was a meeting with a figure who had significantly influenced his basketball journey.
Reflecting on the meeting, Olivari shared, "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." For the rookie, meeting Curry was a dream come true, heightened by the unexpected yet profound moment of Curry not only acknowledging Olivari but also gifting him a pair of signed sneakers.
The moment was laden with respect and admiration on both ends. "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. The mutual respect between a seasoned veteran and an aspiring rookie paints a picture of the NBA as a league where legends inspire and interact with the next generation.
The Idol's Influence
From a young age, Quincy Olivari looked up to Stephen Curry. It was more than a passive fan interaction; Curry was a central figure in Olivari's basketball upbringing. "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," he recalled. These memories are not just fanciful nostalgia; they are pivotal experiences that have shaped Olivari’s basketball philosophy and aspirations.
Being acknowledged by his idol was powerful for Olivari. "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," he shared with an earnestness that speaks volumes about the importance of that interaction.
The Road Ahead
For now, Olivari awaits a decision on whether he will secure a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster. Whatever the outcome, the preseason has proven to be a critical juncture in his fledgling career. With impressive performances on the court and unforgettable moments off it, Quincy Olivari embodies the spirit of the NBA preseason—a time for young talent to shine and dreams to come true.
His story is a reminder of how the sport of basketball continues to foster connections and inspire, transcending generations. Whether he wears the purple and gold in the regular season or moves on to other opportunities, the inspiration he drew from meeting Stephen Curry will undoubtedly continue to fuel his passion and determination.
"My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," Olivari remarked, as he reflected on a preseason that he’ll remember for both personal milestones and professional achievements. As Quincy Olivari charts his path forward, one can only hope the NBA echoes more stories like his—where the dreams of young players intertwine with the legends they admire.