As the NBA preseason unfolds, a new talent is catching the eyes of basketball fans and pundits alike. Quincy Olivari, an undrafted guard from Xavier University, is quickly making a name for himself with the Los Angeles Lakers. His unexpected rise began during a recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum, where Olivari’s performance not only led the Lakers to a victory but also earned him national screen time.
A Debut to Remember
Quincy Olivari’s journey to the NBA is not your typical sports story. After playing college basketball at Xavier University and going undrafted, Olivari’s professional dreams hung in the balance. However, the Lakers saw potential in the young guard and brought him onto their roster. It was during the Lakers’ opening preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves that Olivari first stepped onto the NBA court. Although his initial appearance was brief—just three minutes on the floor—it was enough to catch the attention of head coach JJ Redick.
Coach Redick, recognizing Olivari’s potential, increased his playtime in subsequent games.
“Quincy completely changed the game… picking up full court, being disruptive, taking time off the shot clock. I thought he executed exactly what we want from someone in his position,”
Redick commented after the Lakers’ 107-102 win against the Bucks.
Breakout Performance Catches ESPN’s Attention
It was in the third preseason game against the Bucks that Olivari truly shined. Playing nine minutes, he impressively racked up 11 points, five rebounds, and two assists, shooting 3 for 4 from beyond the arc. This standout performance did not go unnoticed as it earned him a spot on ESPN’s “NBA Today” show. The young guard shared his excitement on X, saying,
“Wow, I was just watching NBA Today and then I popped up on the screen. I’m just very very thankful. All honor and Glory goes to God.”
Endorsements from High Places
The accolades didn’t stop with media recognition. Following his performance, Olivari received a significant endorsement from Lakers superstar LeBron James. On Instagram, James highlighted Olivari’s game, posting,
“They know who 41 is now,”
a nod to Olivari’s jersey number. This shoutout from one of basketball’s biggest names only adds to the growing buzz around the rookie guard.
As the Lakers continue their preseason, all eyes are now on Olivari, with fans and analysts eager to see if he can maintain his high level of play. His next opportunity will come on Tuesday, Oct. 15, when the Lakers face the Golden State Warriors in another exhibition game.
Rising Expectations
Quincy Olivari’s emergence as a “hidden gem” has sparked conversations about his potential impact on the Lakers’ season. With his ability to seize opportunities and perform under pressure, Olivari is not just a player to watch; he is a beacon of hope for undrafted players aiming to make their mark in the NBA.
In a league where stars are born overnight, Quincy Olivari’s story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the sheer unpredictability of sports. As the preseason progresses, it will be fascinating to watch how far this undrafted rookie can go, not just in the eyes of his teammates and coaches, but in the hearts of basketball fans around the world.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.