Neemias Queta, the Portuguese standout, made a big impression at the Boston Celtics’ recent Media Day. He spoke openly about everything. From his friend and former teammate, Al Horford, to his time with the Portuguese National Team at EuroBasket 2025. This talented player continues to make his home country proud in the NBA’s shining universe.
Queta had high praise for Al Horford. He called Horford special. Getting to pick his brain and ask questions was huge. Horford learned to play top-level defense. The secret to improving, Queta believes, was finding a way to always be strong on defense. Horford truly helped him develop that skill. This praise comes as the 39-year-old veteran, originally from San Felipe de Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, just moved from the Celtics to the Warriors.
The Celtics roster has changed. Queta was asked about these changes. He also spoke about how the team will adjust, especially with leadership. The Portuguese center was very honest. “It’s a different team,” Queta said. “We lost many key voices in the locker room.” Everyone needs to step up more now. That effort will then lead to success in other areas, he believes.
Queta also played for Portugal in the recent EuroBasket. He reflected on how that international experience helps the Celtics. His answer came quickly. “Playing there builds confidence,” he stated. It gave him experience against many different players. The rules were also different. This kind of challenge always helps you improve. This experience will make him more versatile. He will be a more reliable player for everyone on the team. It helps him become a more complete and useful athlete.
Brad Stevens is the President of Basketball Operations for the Celtics. He has high hopes for Queta. “He will play hard,” Stevens said. “He will do whatever we ask him to do.” Stevens believes Queta will give everything to make the team better. He also thinks Queta has improved his game. “He has made great progress since joining us,” Stevens added. “He deserves a chance to show what he can do.”
Coach Joe Mazzulla also focused on Queta’s EuroBasket performance. The competition’s physicality and talent were high, Mazzulla noted. Queta showed great passion representing his country. This dedication reminds Mazzulla of playing for the Celtics. Queta has already shown he can perform under pressure. Now, the coach has even more faith he can deliver every single night.