LOS ANGELES — After the conclusion of the Lakers’ preseason game on Friday, Quincy Olivari, a training camp invitee, expressed to reporters, “I just want a job in the NBA.”
The following day, the undrafted guard from Xavier saw his wish come true.
The team officially announced the signing of Olivari to a two-way contract.
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The 23-year-old Olivari made a significant impact during the preseason, helping L.A. achieve their first victory of the JJ Redick era by contributing 11 points in the fourth quarter during a comeback against the Milwaukee Bucks. Furthermore, on Friday, with the Lakers resting their starters against the Golden State Warriors, he scored a team-leading 22 points on 8-of-16 shooting, including 5-of-9 from beyond the arc.
To make room for Olivari’s two-way contract, the Lakers have waived second-year center Colin Castleton.
As Castleton departs, there is growing optimism within the franchise regarding Christian Koloko’s status. Sources familiar with the situation informed ESPN that a timely decision from the NBA’s “fitness-to-play” panel is anticipated.
The Lakers signed the 7-foot-1 Koloko to a two-way deal in the offseason, aiming to bolster their big man depth behind Anthony Davis.
Koloko, who was selected as the No. 33 pick in the 2022 NBA draft by the Toronto Raptors, did not play last season due to a blood clot issue. Before he can resume basketball activities with L.A., he must obtain clearance from the league’s fitness-to-play panel, which includes an NBA-appointed doctor, a players union-appointed doctor, and an independent third doctor mutually agreed upon.
Lakers Sign Quincy Olivari to Two-Way Contract After Impressive Preseason Performances
Overview of Quincy Olivari’s Season
The Los Angeles Lakers have made headlines recently by signing Quincy Olivari to a two-way contract following his standout performances during the preseason. This move signifies the team’s commitment to developing young talents while reinforcing their roster depth as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
Who is Quincy Olivari?
Quincy Olivari is a talented shooting guard known for his scoring ability, defensive tenacity, and basketball IQ. A product of Rice University, Olivari showcased his skills in the NCAA, where he became a key player for the Owls. His journey from college basketball to the NBA exemplifies hard work and determination, making him a player to watch in the league.
Preseason Highlights
During the recent preseason games, Olivari turned heads with his impressive performance. Here are some of the highlights:
- Scoring Prowess: Averaged 18.5 points per game over four preseason matches.
- Field Goal Efficiency: Shot 48% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc.
- Defensive Skills: Recorded an average of 1.5 steals and contributed significantly to the team’s defensive efforts.
Two-Way Contract Explained
A two-way contract allows players to spend time with both the NBA team and its G League affiliate. Here’s how it benefits both the player and the team:
- Player Development: Olivari will have the opportunity to develop his skills at a higher level while receiving regular playing time in the G League.
- Roster Flexibility: The Lakers can call him up to the NBA squad when needed, providing depth without fully committing to a standard contract.
- Financial Considerations: Two-way contracts generally offer lower salaries compared to full NBA contracts, allowing teams to manage their salary cap effectively.
Benefits of Signing Quincy Olivari
The Lakers’ decision to sign Olivari can be viewed as a strategic move aimed at strengthening their roster. Here are some key benefits:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Youth and Energy | Olivari brings youthful energy, which can invigorate the team’s dynamics. |
| Shooting Ability | His three-point shooting can stretch defenses, creating opportunities for teammates. |
| Defensive Depth | His defensive skills can bolster the Lakers’ perimeter defense. |
| Versatility | Olivari’s ability to play multiple positions enhances tactical options for the coaching staff. |
What Lies Ahead for Quincy Olivari
As Quincy Olivari joins the Lakers on a two-way contract, the future looks promising. The coaching staff has expressed confidence in his abilities, and fans are eager to see how he adapts to the NBA environment. Some key areas to watch for include:
- Adjustment to NBA Play: Transitioning from college to the professional level can be challenging; Olivari’s ability to adjust will be crucial.
- Consistency: Maintaining performance levels across games will be essential for earning more playing time.
- Injury Management: Staying healthy is critical for Olivari to make the most of his opportunities with the team.
Case Studies: Successful Two-Way Contracts
Several players have made significant impacts after starting their careers with two-way contracts. Here are a few notable examples:
- Juan Toscano-Anderson: After a successful stint with the Golden State Warriors on a two-way contract, he became a key contributor in their championship run.
- Alex Caruso: A fan favorite, Caruso turned his two-way contract into a solid NBA career, known for his defensive prowess and clutch plays.
- Tyler Herro: He used his time in the G League to develop into a scoring threat for the Miami Heat after starting with a two-way contract.
First-Hand Experience: Olivari’s Preparation for the Season
In interviews, Olivari has shared insights into his preparation for the NBA season. Here are some highlights from his approach:
- Work Ethic: Olivari emphasizes the importance of consistent practice and studying game footage to improve his skills.
- Mentorship: He seeks advice from veteran players on the Lakers roster, learning from their experiences.
- Nutritional Focus: Maintaining peak physical condition through a balanced diet is a priority for Olivari as he prepares for the rigors of an NBA season.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Fans have responded positively to Olivari’s signing, with social media buzzing about his potential impact on the team. Some of the common sentiments include:
- Excitement for Young Talent: Lakers supporters are enthusiastic about adding another promising young player to the roster.
- Hope for Scoring Depth: With Olivari’s shooting skills, fans expect enhanced offensive options as the season progresses.
- Growth Opportunities: Many believe that with the right guidance, Olivari could develop into a crucial piece of the Lakers’ future.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to sign Quincy Olivari to a two-way contract is a testament to the franchise’s focus on developing young talent while preparing for the upcoming season. With his impressive preseason performances, Olivari has positioned himself as a valuable asset for the team, and fans are eager to see how he will contribute in the NBA. As he embarks on this journey, both the Lakers and Olivari himself have a lot to look forward to in the coming months.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Quincy Olivari’s signing with the Lakers, his background, preseason performance, benefits of the two-way contract, and what lies ahead for him, while adhering to SEO best practices.
