Quincy Olivari Shines in Preseason Finale, Wins Praise and Memorabilia from His Idol
The NBA preseason often serves as a proving ground, a stage where aspiring athletes showcase their skills in hopes of securing a coveted roster spot. Among these hopefuls is Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, who aimed to make his mark with the Los Angeles Lakers. In a notable showdown against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco, Olivari's performance not only turned heads but also brought him face-to-face with one of his childhood heroes, Stephen Curry.
Though the Lakers ultimately fell short in a decisive 132-74 loss to the Warriors, the game served as a personal triumph for Olivari. The rookie exhibited prowess on the court by scoring 22 points and securing seven rebounds, a feat that demanded attention. His shooting was particularly impressive, going 5 for 9 from the 3-point range, underscoring his potential as a dynamic offensive asset. This highlighted a consistent performance throughout the preseason, where he averaged nearly nine points per game and maintained an impressive cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc.
A Dream Meeting with a Basketball Legend
However, the numbers tell only part of Olivari’s story. His preseason journey reached a fairy-tale climax when he encountered NBA superstar Stephen Curry. Despite Curry not playing in the game against the Lakers, his presence was felt, particularly by Olivari, who relished a memorable personal encounter with the Warriors' icon.
For Olivari, meeting Curry carried the weight of a lifelong admiration. "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, capturing the awe and emotion of the moment. Their interaction culminated in an unexpected endorsement when Curry complemented, "I'm a big fan of your game," to which Olivari humbly reciprocated his admiration.
The encounter was more than just words of mutual respect; Curry bestowed upon Olivari a pair of his signed shoes, a gesture that signified much more than material value. Olivari’s joy was palpable as he recounted, "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’s lifelong connection to Curry was deep-rooted. Reminiscing about his younger days, he shared, "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, this meeting was not just about admiration from afar but a heartfelt culmination of personal dreams and inspirations.
Waiting Game for a Roster Spot
As the preseason concluded, Olivari, filled with hope and excitement, now eagerly awaits the Lakers’ decision regarding their opening night roster. His performances, highlighted by standout games such as the one against the Warriors, have undoubtedly made a strong case for his inclusion. Furthermore, having such a high-profile figure as Curry recognize his potential adds a unique feather to his cap.
Olivari's narrative is a classic tale littered with aspiration, admiration, and moments that transcend basketball. While the Lakers deliberate his future, Olivari reflects on a preseason that not only bolstered his professional prospects but also etched an unforgettable chapter in his personal journey.
Reflecting on the profound personal impact this moment had on him, Olivari soberly noted, "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot." As he stands on the cusp of a new chapter, Quincy Olivari embodies the dream of countless young athletes—translating reverence into reality, one game and one memorable meeting at a time.