For the undrafted Quincy Olivari, the NBA preseason was more than just a proving ground—it was the stage for a pivotal encounter with his childhood idol. As an undrafted rookie striving for a spot on the Los Angeles Lakers, Olivari seized the opportunity to showcase his skills during the team's preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. Despite the Lakers' overwhelming loss, with a final score of 132-74, Olivari's individual performance did not go unnoticed.
Olivari, formerly from Xavier, emerged as a bright spot in the game, scoring 22 points and securing seven rebounds. His impressive shooting form, particularly from beyond the three-point line, saw him hitting five of his nine attempts. This standout performance capped a preseason where he nearly averaged nine points per game over four matchups, boasting a cumulative shooting record of 8-for-14 from three-point range. His ability to deliver under pressure was nothing short of noteworthy, demonstrating the potential to earn a coveted place on the Lakers’ roster.
However, the game's narrative stretched far beyond the stat lines for Quincy Olivari. The absence of Stephen Curry on the court did not diminish the young player's encounter with the NBA superstar. It was a meeting of profound significance for Olivari, who has long admired Curry. Reflecting on the interaction, Olivari shared with enthusiasm 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."
This sentiment was mirrored in Curry's remarks, who acknowledged Olivari's potential and skill, expressing, "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." It was a mutual recognition that transcended the typical player-to-player engagement, becoming a moment of recognition and respect.
The interaction left an indelible mark on Olivari, whose admiration for Curry had been longstanding. His recollection of owning a Curry jersey, which he used to cherish as a sixth grader, underscores the depth of his admiration. "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, meeting Curry was more than just a career milestone; it was the realization of a childhood dream. "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."
Such moments are rare and more so when shared between a respected veteran and a promising rookie. The significance of Curry’s gesture was not lost on Olivari, who conveyed its impact poignantly: "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot."
As the preseason drama unfolds for young players like Quincy Olivari, it’s these personal stories that color the narrative beyond the court's hardwood. While performance statistics can influence career trajectories, the interpersonal connections and moments of shared respect resonate deeply, offering unforgettable experiences that transcend the typical challenges of the professional journey.
As Olivari waits to learn if he has earned a spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster, he carries with him not just the hopes of establishing an NBA career but also the cherished memory of a dream meeting with his basketball hero. The intersection of aspiration, hard work, and serendipity has marked Olivari’s preseason journey as one characterized not only by promising gameplay but also by moments that underscore the unique fabric of the NBA fraternity.