In the quest for NBA greatness, every aspiring player's journey is marked by pivotal moments. For Quincy Olivari, an undrafted rookie from Xavier, the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors offered such an opportunity. Though the Lakers suffered a 132-74 defeat in San Francisco, Olivari made a substantial impression in the game.
Olivari shone brightly on the court, scoring 22 points and grabbing seven rebounds. His shooting was particularly noteworthy; he went 5-for-9 from the 3-point range, showcasing a sharpshooter's precision. Across four preseason games, Olivari averaged nearly nine points, establishing himself as a reliable scorer with a cumulative 8-for-14 shooting record from beyond the arc.
Despite the game's outcome, Olivari experienced a personal highlight that transcended the scoreline. Although Stephen Curry did not participate in the game, the iconic Warriors player made a significant impact on Olivari's experience. The young player's admiration for Curry dates back to his childhood, and meeting his idol was a dream come true.
"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 with evident excitement. The interaction went beyond a mere meeting; it was a heartfelt exchange between a budding player and his basketball hero.
Curry's gesture went beyond casual recognition. "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 was palpable, bridging the gap between a young player with aspirations and a seasoned veteran who has achieved what many only dream of.
Olivari, reflecting on his fandom, said, "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." The meeting was transformative; it was not just about a conversation or an autograph, but about validation and inspiration.
Curry's gift of signed shoes held monumental significance for Olivari. "Just to be able to meet him, him being able to have some respect for me, and then us talking in the back -- he gave me a pair of his shoes and signed them. That meant the world to me, man," Olivari shared, emphasizing how profound the gesture was.
For Olivari, the experience was deeply personal. "My dad knows, my mom knows -- like, it just means a lot. I don't know, it just means a lot," he revealed, underscoring the emotional impact of the encounter. The pride and joy in his voice were unmistakable.
As Olivari awaits a decision on securing a spot on the Lakers' opening night roster, his performance and this memorable meeting with Curry might just be the fuel he needs to continue striving for his dreams. For now, this chapter in Olivari's budding career stands as a testament to the unpredictable and rewarding nature of the journey to the NBA. It is a reminder that in sports, moments of personal significance can resonate just as powerfully as professional achievements.