With LeBron James sidelined due to left foot soreness, the Lakers turned to an unlikely hero to help snap their four-game losing streak, defeating the Portland Trailblazers 107-98. Two-way rookie Quincy Olivari made his NBA debut count, draining a second-quarter three-pointer that proved to be more than just his first career points – it was a moment that validated his unconventional path to the league.
From G League to NBA Spotlight
Just 24 hours before stepping onto the Crypto.com Arena hardwood, Olivari was suiting up for the South Bay Lakers in the G League. The rookie had just returned from a five-game absence due to an ankle injury when he got the unexpected text: he’d be active for the next night’s NBA game.
“I almost wasn’t able to take my nap today,” Olivari shared post-game. “When I woke up this morning at 8 a.m., I woke up to a text saying change of plans, you’re active and I was just up.”
A Debut Worth Waiting For
Making the moment even more special, Olivari’s father was in attendance – the same person who first took him to an NBA game, watching from the 300-level seats at Phillips Arena. In his eight minutes of play, Olivari went 1-for-3 from the field, with his lone bucket putting the Lakers ahead 28-25 in what would become a crucial 107-98 victory over the Trail Blazers.
“A lot of prayer, a lot of preparation and a lot of perseverance,” Olivari reflected on his first NBA points. “I hope it’s three points to 50,000. Dream big.”
Los Angeles Lakers guard Quincy Olivari celebrating with Bronny James
© Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
The Two-Way Reality
As a two-way contract player, Olivari’s NBA opportunities will be limited – he’s eligible for only 50 active games with the Lakers unless they convert his contract to a standard deal. This means more nights shuttling between the G League and NBA, a challenge the rookie seems prepared to embrace.
“This is what I love to do,” Olivari said. “Either way, I’m playing basketball either in L.A. or in L.A. I’m with the Lakers and I’m in an organization that believes in me.”
Olivari’s potential hasn’t gone unnoticed beyond the Lakers organization. His impressive preseason showing against the Warriors caught Stephen Curry’s attention, Olivari secured a shoe deal with Under Armour – suggesting the Lakers might have found another diamond in the rough in their player development pipeline.
For now, Olivari will continue his G League development while staying ready for his next NBA opportunity. If his debut is any indication, those 50 active game opportunities won’t go to waste.
