Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta wrapped up an impressive EuroBasket campaign on Saturday, despite Portugal’s 85-58 loss to powerhouse Germany in the Round of 16. Entering the game as heavy 29-point underdogs, Portugal kept things close through three quarters, trailing by just one before Germany pulled away with a dominant 33-7 fourth quarter to secure the win and advance.
Queta was once again a standout performer for Portugal, recording his second double-double of the tournament with 18 points, 11 rebounds, two steals, and a block in 26 minutes of action. He also knocked down his second three-pointer of the tournament, a notable milestone given that he had yet to make one in his NBA career. Over six games, Queta averaged a team-high 15.5 points, 8 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game, hitting 2-of-7 from deep — a potential sign of expanded range heading into the NBA season.
The 26-year-old scored in double figures in five of his six EuroBasket appearances and played a key role in helping Portugal secure their first two tournament wins since 2007 and reach the knockout stage for the first time ever.
Queta will now have three weeks to rest before Celtics training camp begins in early October. With the offseason departures of Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet, Queta is seen as the frontrunner for Boston’s starting center position. He’ll face competition from Luka Garza, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman, but his EuroBasket performance suggests he’s ready to take on a bigger role under head coach Joe Mazzulla.
