Once a fan favorite in Los Angeles, Quincy Olivari has quietly been building a new chapter in his professional basketball career.
He was once hailed as the Lakers’ next undrafted gem, with head coach JJ Redick calling him the “blueprint” and a game-changer. But momentum stalled throughout the 2024‑25 season, with Olivari spending most of his time in the G League with the South Bay Lakers.
He was eventually waived from his Two-Way contract, joining South Bay full-time before leaving the franchise at the end of his rookie season, effectively falling off the radar.
Even during his brief stint, Olivari left a lasting impression on Lakers fans, who admired his hustle, scoring ability, and energy every time he took the floor, often calling for him to be given a full NBA opportunity, which never really materialized.
Quincy Olivari: Where Is He Now?
Fast-forward to 2025 after a brief Summer League stint with the Brooklyn Nets, Olivari is now starring for the Motor City Cruise, the G League affiliate of the Detroit Pistons. He continues to chase his NBA dream, using the G League as a platform to showcase his value and earn another shot at the highest level.
Olivari’s recent performance on Dec. 29 demonstrates his offensive potential. He scored 27 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and added six assists in a 138‑117 win over the Mac McClung-led Windy City Bulls. It was his second-highest scoring game of the season, after a 30-point outing against the Iowa Wolves on Nov. 29.
His near-triple-double helped the Cruise set a franchise record for points in a single quarter (50), and Olivari’s influence on both ends of the floor was unmistakable.
This season, he has emerged as one of the Cruise’s primary offensive options. Across 12 G League games, he’s averaging 14.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and one steal per game, shooting 44% overall and 31.9% from three-point range.
While his form over the past two seasons has been inconsistent, partly due to injuries, his ability to score, create for teammates, and hustle when healthy highlights a well-rounded skill set that could make him an NBA contributor in the future.
Looking Forward, Lakers Days Are Behind Him
Olivari’s path was emblematic of many young players navigating the leap from college stardom to the NBA. After going undrafted in 2024, he signed an Exhibit‑10 contract with the Lakers and later earned a Two-Way deal.
During Summer League and preseason, he showcased his scoring and energy, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Memorable moments, such as meeting Steph Curry for the first time and signing a multi-year sneaker deal with Under Armour’s Curry Brand, amplified his profile.
After being released by the Lakers, Olivari signed with the Pistons organization, who traded for his G League rights, firmly staying in contention for an NBA call-up.
Since his short Lakers stint, Olivari has had to redefine his early career and make a case for a future NBA roster spot. His recent performances are proof that he is not content to play in the background.
“I just want a job in the NBA,” Olivari once said, emphasizing his focus and determination to impact games and earn a shot a full opportunity at the NBA level, particularly as he remains eligible for a Two-Way contract over the next couple of seasons.
Olivari’s story is a reminder that while the glamour of the NBA spotlight may fade quickly, perseverance and strong performances in the G League can keep players relevant in league circles, even if they remain in the shadows for fans.
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