In a heartwarming moment during the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason finale against the Golden State Warriors, rookie Quincy Olivari got emotional after meeting his idol, Stephen Curry. Olivari, who led the Lakers with 22 points and seven rebounds, was visibly moved when he had the chance to speak with Curry after the game.
Olivari, an undrafted rookie out of Xavier, has long admired Curry and even shared a video of the two from years ago when Curry signed Olivari’s Curry jersey. Fast forward to Friday night, Olivari had his own NBA jersey on while speaking to his inspiration.
“I liked him since I was in 6th grade… that’s my favorite player ever… the first thing he told me was ‘I’m a big fan of your game’… I had his jersey, he signed it twice. I used to sleep under that jersey… That meant the world to me.”
Quincy Olivari got emotional after meeting Steph Curry:
“I liked him since I was in 6th grade… that’s my favorite player ever… the first thing he told me was ‘I’m a big fan of your game’… I had his jersey, he signed it twice. I used to sleep under that jersey.”
👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/5F1QiPXe18
— NBA (@NBA) October 19, 2024
Steph signing a young Quincy Olivari’s Curry jersey 🙌
(via quincyolivari/ig) https://t.co/BJtUbwM8hy pic.twitter.com/b5R75x8d8K
— TheWarriorsTalk (@TheWarriorsTalk) October 19, 2024
Curry, who was resting and watching from the sidelines, was equally touched by the encounter. After the game, Curry took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message for Olivari.
“Pleasure bro, appreciate you for being a real one and letting me know the history!!” Curry commented on Olivari’s post.
Lakers rookie Quincy Olivari got to meet his childhood hero last night 🥹🙌
(via @quincyolivari) pic.twitter.com/4LiwYue6E0
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 19, 2024
Olivari’s journey to the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable. Overcoming the odds as an undrafted rookie, he has worked tirelessly to earn his place on the Lakers’ roster. His performance in the preseason finale showcased his potential and determination, making the moment with Curry even more poignant.
Curry’s response highlights the impact veteran players can have on the younger generation. Known for his humility and generosity, Curry has always been a role model both on and off the court.
