Quincy Olivari went from complete unknown to arguably the story of the preseason for the Lakers in recent weeks. Even the “relative” part of that phrase is doing some heavy lifting as he went viral at Media Day because fans did not know who he was.
But a memorable comeback against the Bucks kickstarted his story before he finished strong against the Warriors in their final game. Along the way, he gained a host of fans, none bigger than Lakers legend Magic Johnson.
That, plus his work in practice, was enough for the Lakers to make some roster moves to keep him around this weekend. On Saturday, the team waived Colin Castleton, opening up a two-way roster spot to use on Olivari.
At practice on Sunday, Olivari shared his reaction to learning he had made the team.
It’s been quite the ride for Olivari over the last three weeks. But even before fans and legends got behind him, JJ Redick had already been in Olivari’s corner.
Redick also talked about keeping Olivari with the team, but also was quick to credit Castleton’s work with the Lakers this preseason and the last couple of years.
It’s been a wild ride for Olivari, but now he has a bit more security. A two-way contract is nothing close to a guarantee, but it’s far more certainty than he had even weeks ago.
Now, he has a clearer pathway to making his way to the NBA. And if the last three weeks have taught anyone anything, it’s not to count Olivari out.