"Then I popped up on screen" - Lakers undrafted rookie Quincy Olivari reacts to overwhelming attention after NBA preseason game

Los Angeles Lakers undrafted guard Quincy Olivari was surprised to see his face on the TV screen recently and shared his experience on X (formerly Twitter).

Olivari played college basketball at Xavier University but was never drafted by any team. Luckily for him, the Lakers took a chance on him and signed him.

During the team's opening preseason game, Olivari played against the Minnesota Timberwolves for the first time in his NBA basketball career.

However, he was on the floor for only three minutes. Fortunately, head coach JJ Redick gave him a chance and had him play for more than three minutes the next game.

On Thursday, the team had their third preseason game and played against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Fiserv Forum. Olivari played nine minutes and made the most of his chances. He finished with 11 points, five rebounds, and two assists shooting 3 for 4 from beyond the arc.

Fans and experts took notice of his performance, which earned him screen time on ESPN's "NBA Today" show. Olivari shared on X that he was watching the show and saw himself on the screen.

"Wow, I was just watching NBA Today and then I popped up on the screen. I'm just very very thankful. All honor and Glory goes to God," Olivari posted on X.

Following his performance, fans online showed love to the rookie guard. Even coach Redick was energized with how Olivari took full advantage of the chance he was given.

"Quincy completely changed the game … picking up full court, being disruptive, taking time off the shot clock. I thought he executed exactly what we want from someone in his position," Redick said after their 107-102 win against the Bucks.

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Olivari gets a shoutout from Lakers superstar

Getting recognized by fans and the media is an encouraging feeling but it gets better if a star player pays attention. Following his breakout game, Olivari received a shoutout from the main superstar of the Lakers, LeBron James.

On Instagram, James shared a post on his story that featured the undrafted guard.

"They know who 41 is now," James posted.

All eyes are now on Olivari after he stole the show on the team's road trip to Milwaukee. Fans will tune in on Tuesday, Oct. 15, as the Lakers will take on the Golden State Warriors for another exhibition game. Many expect the rookie to follow up on his incredible performance against the Bucks.

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