Neemias Queta isn’t one to bask in the spotlight, but his meteoric rise is making it hard for the Boston Celtics to ignore him. In a candid interview with Eurohoops, the 26-year-old big man addressed speculation about stepping into the role of Boston’s starting center for the 2025–26 season, revealing a mindset and work ethic that have quietly forced the Celtics’ hand.
“Nothing is guaranteed right now—we’re just ready to go,” Queta said, via HoopsHype. “All the guys have been working their tail off this summer. When training camp comes, Joe (Mazzulla) will make his decision. I’m here to help and contribute.” His humility belies the undeniable impact he’s had, both in the NBA and on the international stage, which has positioned him as a serious contender for a starting spot.
Last season, Queta proved his worth in his most active NBA campaign yet, suiting up for 62 games with the Celtics. He averaged 5.0 points and 3.8 rebounds while shooting an impressive 65 percent from the field. When injuries sidelined Kristaps Porzingis, Queta stepped up, starting in six games and showcasing his ability to hold down the paint. His versatility and relentless effort have made him a perfect fit for Boston’s dynamic system, which thrives on adaptability.
“Our team has been versatile for years and still will be,” Queta explained. “We’re all used to playing in different positions, whether starting or guarding multiple spots. It’s a long season—82 games—and you have to be malleable.” This flexibility, paired with his physicality and defensive instincts, has made Queta a vital piece of the Celtics’ frontcourt puzzle, complementing stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
But it’s not just his NBA performance that’s turning heads. Queta’s recent heroics on the international stage have added fuel to the hype. Leading Portugal to its first EuroBasket win in nearly two decades, he delivered a historic performance against Czechia, dropping 23 points, grabbing 18 rebounds, and swatting four blocks. In doing so, he became the first player in EuroBasket history to record at least 20 points and 15 rebounds in a debut game—a feat that underscores his potential to dominate at any level.
As training camp approaches, Queta’s combination of humility, versatility, and raw talent is making it impossible for the Celtics to overlook him. While he’s not rushing to claim the starting center role, his performances are doing the talking. With a grueling 82-game season ahead, Queta’s ability to adapt and deliver could very well cement him as Boston’s not-so-secret weapon in the paint.