Neemias Queta NBA journey is one of those under-the-radar stories that reminds you why the league is full of surprises. Think about it: a kid from Portugal, barely on anyone’s radar, climbs from small-town courts to becoming the first (and still only) Portuguese player in NBA history. Then, after getting cut and grinding in the G League, he lands with the Boston Celtics and explodes into a starting center role. His path feels like a classic comeback tale – full of setbacks, hard work, and that one big break that changes everything.
Early Life: From Barreiro, Portugal, to Discovering Basketball
Neemias Queta NBA Journey:Born on July 13, 1999, in Barreiro, just outside Lisbon, Neemias Queta didn’t pick up a basketball until he was 10 years old. His parents, originally from Guinea-Bissau, had fled civil war, giving him a unique cultural background that mixes Portuguese roots with African heritage. Growing up, he played for local clubs like F.C. Barreirense and even saw limited action with S.L. Benfica’s senior team in Portugal’s top league.
But basketball wasn’t his only passion early on – he was tall, athletic, and curious. By his late teens, scouts noticed his 7-foot frame, massive 7-4 wingspan, and defensive instincts. Yet, college offers from the U.S. were scarce. Only one full scholarship came his way: Utah State. Can you imagine turning down limited options to chase a dream across the ocean? That’s exactly what Queta did in 2018, packing up for Logan, Utah, a place worlds away from Lisbon.
College Dominance at Utah State: Building a Foundation
Queta’s time with the Utah State Aggies was where he truly announced himself. As a freshman in 2018-19, he started all 35 games, averaging 11.8 points, 8.9 rebounds, and a league-leading 2.4 blocks per game. He earned Mountain West Freshman of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Second-Team All-Conference honors. He set a program record with 84 blocks that season – talk about making an immediate impact!
He declared for the 2019 NBA Draft but withdrew to return for his sophomore year. A knee injury sidelined him for the first nine games of 2019-20, but he bounced back strong, posting 13.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks while repeating on the All-Defensive Team.
His junior season in 2020-21 was breakout territory: 14.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.3 blocks, and 2.7 assists per game on 55.9% shooting. He became the only player in the Mountain West to average a double-double, shattered his own blocks record with 97 (leading the nation), and earned First-Team All-Mountain West, Defensive Player of the Year, and Naismith Defensive Player of the Year finalist nods. Utah State fans still talk about his rim protection like it was yesterday.
After three stellar years, Queta declared for the 2021 NBA Draft, forgoing his senior eligibility. He left as the program’s all-time leader in blocks (219) and blocks per game (2.5).
The Draft and Early NBA Struggles: Sacramento Kings Era
The Sacramento Kings selected Queta with the 39th overall pick (second round) in 2021, making him the first Portuguese player ever drafted into the NBA. He signed a two-way contract, splitting time between the Kings and their G League affiliate, the Stockton Kings.
His NBA minutes were limited – just 20 games over two seasons with Sacramento, averaging around 3 points and 2 rebounds in spot duty. But in the G League? He dominated. In 2022-23, he averaged 16.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.9 blocks on 68% shooting with Stockton. He earned All-NBA G League First Team, All-Defensive Team, and finished runner-up for G League MVP.
Despite the strong development, the Kings waived him before the 2023-24 season to sign veteran JaVale McGee. It was a gut punch – released after investing years in the organization. But Queta stayed resilient, turning the setback into fuel.
Joining the Boston Celtics: From Two-Way to Starter
In September 2023, the Boston Celtics signed Queta to a two-way deal, sending him to the Maine Celtics for seasoning. He made his Celtics debut that season, appearing in 28 games off the bench and averaging 5.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks in under 12 minutes. He converted to a standard contract in April 2024 and even contributed in the playoffs during Boston’s 2024 championship run.
The 2024-25 season saw more growth: 62 games, 5.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, and solid efficiency (65% FG). With key departures like Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis (traded), and Luke Kornet leaving via free agency, Queta stepped into the starting center role for 2025-26.
And boy, has he delivered. Through the season (as of early March 2026), he’s averaging career highs: 9.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 blocks in about 25 minutes per game, shooting an elite 64.3% from the field. His rebounding and rim protection have anchored Boston’s frontcourt, helping the team stay competitive in the East.
This rise ties perfectly into moments like his explosive performance against the Philadelphia 76ers, where he posted a Neemias Queta career high 27 points 17 rebounds Celtics 76ers masterpiece – a game that showcased his growth from project big to reliable starter.
Key Milestones and Records in Neemias Queta NBA Journey
- First Portuguese player drafted and to play in the NBA (December 17, 2021).
- NBA champion with the 2023-24 Boston Celtics.
- G League accolades: All-First Team, All-Defensive, MVP runner-up.
- Utah State records: All-time blocks leader.
- Career progression: Two-way → standard deal → starter for a contender.
His journey highlights patience and adaptability – traits that resonate in today’s NBA.
What the Future Holds for Neemias Queta
At 26, Queta is locked in with a multi-year contract with Boston (through 2026-27 with options). He’s no longer just depth; he’s a key piece for a championship-caliber squad. Could we see All-Defensive nods or even Most Improved Player chatter? His trajectory suggests bigger things ahead.
For aspiring players from smaller basketball countries, Queta’s story is proof: one scholarship, relentless defense, and grinding through waivers can lead to the top.
Conclusion: A Trailblazing Path Worth Celebrating
Neemias Queta NBA journey is inspiring because it’s real – no hype, no shortcuts, just consistent improvement and seizing opportunities. From Barreiro streets to TD Garden starting lineup, he’s not only made history for Portugal but also shown that big men with defensive hearts can thrive in the modern NBA. If his recent surge (including that unforgettable Neemias Queta career high 27 points 17 rebounds Celtics 76ers night) is any indication, this is just the beginning. Keep an eye on him – trailblazers like Queta don’t stay under the radar forever.
FAQs based on Neemias Queta’s NBA journey:
When did Neemias Queta become the first Portuguese player in the NBA?
He was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in 2021 (39th pick) and made his NBA debut on December 17, 2021, becoming the first (and still only) Portuguese-born player in league history.
What college did Neemias Queta attend and what made him stand out?
He played at Utah State University (2018–2021), where he was a two-time Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year, set the program’s all-time blocks record (219), and led the nation in blocks per game as a junior.
Why was Neemias Queta waived by the Sacramento Kings?
After two seasons on a two-way contract and strong G League performances, the Kings waived him in September 2023 to sign veteran center JaVale McGee, opening the door for his move to Boston.
How did Neemias Queta join the Boston Celtics and what role does he play now?
He signed a two-way contract with Boston in September 2023, converted to a standard deal in 2024, and became the starting center for the 2025–26 season due to frontcourt departures.
What was a career-defining moment in Neemias Queta’s time with the Celtics?
His explosive performance against the Philadelphia 76ers, where he recorded a career-high 27 points and 17 rebounds, showcased his growth into a key contributor for a contending team.
