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Even stalwart fans of the Boston Celtics have been surprised by the leap made by Boston big man Neemias Queta this season as he took on the starting role for the Celtics in the wake of Al Horford and Luke Kornet leaving the team in free agency this offseason. But by all accounts, the leap is both real and impactful, with the Portuguese center helping fuel the improbable success of his team this season.
Boston head coach Joe Mazzulla credited the opportunity the Lisbon native took advantage of this offseason playing for the Portuguese National Team in FIBA Eurobasket play for Queta’s growth. “(When) he was playing in FIBA this summer, I thought he had a different approach to it,” said Mazzulla. “And then, just his growth.”
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“I think the evolution of his game, but also the evolution of his mindset, taking on the ownership and responsibility of what it means to be the starting center for the Celtics,” he added. “He takes a lot of pride in that.”
Mar 12, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Boston Celtics guard/forward Jaylen Brown (7) shoots over Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace (22) during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
“Just being aware overall,” said the man himself of what’s behind his sudden frontcourt excellence. “Being able to capitalize on every opportunity … go through film, repetition on the court, workouts. We do a pretty good job of emphasizing stuff that we want to (know), and we really just go down that line.”
“It was a great opportunity for me to be coming to a place where I’m working better, we’re fighting for the championship, we’ve got great players around, great staff. And I’m very close to home, as well.”
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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Neemias Queta leap with Celtics fueled by FIBA play
