Rookie Impresses in NBA Preseason Finale
In the high-octane world of NBA preseason games, it's not just the established stars who capture the spotlight. The matches serve as a proving ground for aspiring talents hoping to secure a place on one of the most prestigious rosters in basketball. One such player making waves is Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, who showcased his potential during the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco.
The competition concluded with a compelling 132-74 victory for the Warriors. Yet, despite the Lakers' loss, it was Olivari's performance that turned heads. Olivari managed to score 22 points and wrangle seven rebounds, displaying a degree of composure and precision that belied his rookie status. Particularly impressive was his proficiency from the 3-point range, shooting 5 for 9 against the seasoned opposition. Across four preseason games, Olivari averaged nearly nine points and maintained a cumulative shooting accuracy of 8-for-14 from beyond the arc, reinforcing his reputation as a promising sharpshooter.
A Dream Encounter with a Basketball Idol
Adding to the narrative of this emerging talent was an unforgettable personal encounter. Olivari, like countless basketball enthusiasts around the world, has idolized Stephen Curry since childhood. Known for his sharpshooting skills and infectious charisma, Curry commands admiration within the basketball community. During the preseason bout, Curry did not hit the court, yet he made a memorable off-court contribution by meeting Olivari, a gesture culminating in a pair of signed shoes for the aspiring athlete.
"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 enthused. The deep respect between Olivari and Curry was stark, with Olivari sharing, "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."
For Olivari, Curry's gesture went far beyond a simple exchange of pleasantries. It represented the realization of a long-standing dream, a moment he expressed with heartfelt nostalgia. "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 revealed. The mutual respect and camaraderie extended beyond the court, with Curry taking time to converse with Olivari, cementing the meeting as a highlight of Olivari's burgeoning career. "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, with palpable emotion.
Uncertain Yet Promising Prospects
For now, Olivari awaits a critical decision that could dramatically shape his future in the NBA—whether he earns a coveted spot on the Lakers’ opening night roster. Regardless of the outcome, Olivari's performance and his encounter with Curry have already set a foundation for a noteworthy career. His ability to capture attention in a game marred by a considerable loss speaks volumes about his potential and tenacity.
Ensuring he made each moment count in the preseason, Olivari demonstrated not only skill but also heart—a vital quality for any athlete. It's clear that whether Olivari's journey continues with the Lakers or takes him elsewhere, the young guard from Xavier is ready to leave his mark on the game he loves. Furthermore, his extraordinary meeting with his childhood idol has undoubtedly added a chapter to his personal and professional narrative that he and his family will cherish forever. As Olivari commented, "My dad knows, my mom knows — like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot."
In such moments, the NBA preseason offers more than a glimpse into emerging talent; it reminds us of the profound connections and stories that basketball weaves through the lives of players and fans alike.