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Lakers' Quincy Olivari stays grounded despite Magic Johnson's shoutout on Twitter: "I'm grinding for something bigger"

Rookie guard Quincy Olivari received great news on Saturday after he signed a two-way contract with the LA Lakers. What's even more impressive is that Olivari has played well and even the legendary Magic Johnson noticed his talent. During his media availability on Sunday, the guard showed humility despite being noticed by the Lakers icon.

The team played their sixth and final preseason game on Friday, Oct. 18 against the Golden State Warriors. Although they suffered an abysmal 132-74 loss against one of their division rivals, Olivari still played well. He finished with 22 points, seven rebounds and two assists.

The five-time champion noticed how well Olivari played against the Warriors. Magic then posted a lengthy and encouraging message for the guard on X (formerly Twitter). On Sunday, the rookie was asked about his thoughts on the post from the iconic player.

"It meant a lot," Olivari said about Magic's shoutout. "He's a legend and being for the Lakers, that's huge name to have a co-sign from him.

Olivari shared that he was unpacking his things when he saw the tweet from Magic.

"I was actually unpacking and I just happen to be on my phone. I was just scrolling and 'Oh, thanks Magic,' [I] liked the tweet. I know he wasn't going to see if I responded but I definitely showed it to my dad, I showed it to my mom, my agent.
"I'm thankful that he was able to give me that, those positive words. But like I said, I'm grinding for something bigger."

Even with the attention he's gotten during the preseason games, Olivari has remained humble. His game has impressed many in the league, fans and players alike. As a result, he will be on the team for the NBA 2024–2025 season.

Also read: Watch: D'Angelo Russell teases Quincy Olivari in Kobe Bryant t-shirt for 'cheesing' after signing with Lakers


What did Lakers' Magic Johnson say about Quincy Olivari?

The former LA Lakers star noticed Quincy Olivari after his interview in their loss against the Warriors. During the interview, Olivari shared the feeling of meeting and playing against his favorite player, Steph Curry.

Magic was moved by Olivari's tale and decided to tell it to everyone. He even urged his social media fans to watch the rookie guard's interview.

"I watched Quincy Olivari’s interview after his 22 point performance last night against the Suns where he cried talking about meeting and talking to his hero Steph Curry, mentioning how he used to sleep in his jersey every night. It was powerful and it truly touched me! Everybody should go watch it back when they get a chance," Magic posted.

Olivari got a chance to talk to his favorite player after the game. The two shared a moment on the court, although Curry didn't play that night. They also took a photo together to commemorate the historic night for the rookie.

Also read: Elated Quincy Olivari reacts to signing with Lakers after impressive preseason showings

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