The Boston Celtics may have just found some much-needed hope in an unlikely place: EuroBasket. While stars like Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo are grabbing headlines. We were surprised at Trend Tattle, when it was Neemias Queta, the 7-foot center from Portugal, who made waves with a monster debut performance. In his first-ever EuroBasket appearance, Queta dominated the Czech Republic with a stat line that turned heads. He scored 23 points, 18 rebounds, four blocks, two steals, and one assist in just over 30 minutes of action. Even more impressive, he shot 11-for-14 from the field and drilled his only attempt from beyond the arc. For Portugal, it was more than just a win as it was their first EuroBasket victory in 18 years. For Queta, it may have been the strongest debut of any player in that span.
✦ A Breakout Moment for Queta
Queta’s dominance immediately sparked conversation among Celtics fans. Could Boston have stumbled onto a hidden gem at center? The Celtics are entering a season filled with uncertainty after trading Kristaps Porzingis. Then, the Celtics lost Jayson Tatum to injury, and likely saying goodbye to veteran Al Horford in free agency. Queta’s breakout came at the perfect time. The “How Bout Them Celtics!” podcast hosts Jack Simone and Sam LaFrance recently debated what his EuroBasket performance could mean for Boston. While some are cautious about overhyping one game, there’s no denying that Queta showed flashes of becoming more than just a role player.
✦ Expanding His Game
One of the biggest surprises in Queta’s debut was his 3-point shot. In four NBA seasons, he had never attempted one. Yet, he confidently knocked down a deep ball to open the game. The Celtics, who broke the NBA record for 3-pointers made last season, could benefit if Queta can add even a small stretch-shooting element to his game. Of course, Queta’s true strengths remain inside. His 18 rebounds were the seventh-most in EuroBasket history and more than double the total of the rest of his team combined. His defensive presence was overwhelming, anchoring Portugal to a 62-50 win over the Czech Republic.
✦ From Sacramento to Boston
Queta’s path to this moment wasn’t easy. Waived by the Sacramento Kings, he signed with Boston in September 2023. He spent time in the G League before earning a three-year contract in July 2024. Last season, he played a career-high 62 games and averaged five points, 3.8 rebounds, and 0.7 assists. He also contributed to the Celtics’ 2024 NBA title run. Now, with Boston’s roster in flux, Queta has a real chance to compete for a starting role. His EuroBasket performance suggests he’s ready for a bigger stage.
✦ The Real Test Ahead
While Queta’s debut was spectacular, the toughest challenges are still to come. Portugal’s next matchup pits him against three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic and powerhouse Serbia. That game will provide a clearer picture of how Queta stacks up against the best in the world. To get the updates on the game, you can bookmark Trend Tattle. For now, Celtics fans can enjoy the excitement. Queta’s EuroBasket debut has given Boston reason to believe they might already have their next difference-maker in the frontcourt. After Portugal’s historic win, one thing is certain: Neemias Queta has officially arrived on the international stage.
FAQs
1. What made Neemias Queta’s EuroBasket debut so special?
Queta posted 23 points, 18 rebounds, four blocks, two steals, and one assist in 30 minutes, leading Portugal to their first EuroBasket win in 18 years.
2. Why is Queta’s EuroBasket performance important for the Celtics?
With Porzingis traded, Tatum injured, and Horford likely leaving, Boston needs frontcourt help. Queta’s breakout shows he could step into a bigger role this season.
3. Did Queta surprise fans with a new skill in his debut?
Yes. He confidently made his first-ever 3-pointer in competitive play. While not yet a shooter, it suggests possible growth in Boston’s perimeter-focused offense.
4. What has Queta achieved with the Celtics so far?
Signed in 2023, Queta played 62 games last season, averaged five points, and contributed during the Celtics’ 2024 championship run, earning a three-year NBA deal.
5. What challenge does Queta face next in EuroBasket?
Portugal will face Nikola Jokic and Serbia. That matchup will test Queta’s ability against elite competition and reveal whether his breakout can translate against superstars.
