By admin 
A Battle for the Future
In a preseason filled with routine activities, one undrafted rookie for the Los Angeles Lakers, Quincy Olivari, was waging a battle much greater than just securing playing time. He was fighting for his future in the NBA. After the Lakers’ final preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, the 23-year-old guard candidly expressed his aspirations: “I just want a job in the NBA,” he said, revealing the depth of his desire to succeed.
Capturing Attention and Seizing Opportunity
Soon after, Olivari became a focal point for fans and coaches alike, as his hard work paid off when the Lakers waived center Colin Castleton to open a spot for him on the roster through a two-way contract. This pivotal moment marked the culmination of a journey that transitioned him from relative obscurity to becoming a fan favorite, especially evident when a viral photo of him standing beside LeBron James at the Lakers media day led many to ask, “Who is number 41?”
Initially signed on a training camp deal, Olivari rapidly garnered attention during the Lakers’ preseason. In a thrilling comeback against the Milwaukee Bucks, he showcased his skills with an impressive 11-point performance in the fourth quarter, helping secure the team’s first win under head coach JJ Redick. Just days later, he exploded for 22 points against the Warriors, shooting an eye-popping 5-of-9 from three-point range while the starters rested.
The Lakers have a keen eye for uncovering undrafted talent, and it seems they may have found another gem in Olivari. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, he demonstrated sharpshooting capabilities by hitting 8-of-14 from beyond the arc during the preseason, solidifying his reputation as a long-range threat.
A Legacy of Shooting Excellence
Olivari’s journey began at Xavier University, where he shot an impressive 40.9 percent from three-point range in his senior season, leading the Big East and setting the school’s record for single-season three-pointers with 106. Prior to his time at Xavier, he spent four years at Rice University, where he built a strong reputation as a consistent shooter, averaging 38.7 percent from distance over five college seasons.
However, it wasn’t just his shooting that caught the attention of his coaches. Redick praised Olivari’s overall demeanor and work ethic, saying, “He has an infectious spirit and soul about him. It’s not that he’s some super talkative, boisterous guy, but he carries himself well, he carries himself with intent. His work ethic is really high, and I think people respond to that.” Redick further noted how a player who embodies such qualities can transform a team’s dynamic, emphasizing the importance of both skill and character in the game.
A Promising Path Ahead
Earning a two-way contract is a significant milestone for Olivari, yet questions about his long-term future in the NBA linger. He is expected to spend a considerable amount of time with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where his shooting prowess and tenacity could make him one of the league’s most exciting players to watch.
With the Lakers emphasizing G League development under Redick, Olivari remains just a step away from the NBA stage. As he continues to hone his skills and prove himself, the path ahead holds immense potential, not just for his career but also for the Lakers, who may have unearthed another star from the depths of the undrafted pool. The journey from obscurity to prominence is rarely easy, but for Quincy Olivari, it is just the beginning of an inspiring narrative in the world of basketball.