Kofi Inkoom
The Boston Celtics have made a significant move by finalizing a two-way contract with free agent center Neemias Queta, according to Shams Charania.
Queta’s journey to this deal is marked by his time in college, his selection by the Sacramento Kings, and his impressive performance in the G League.
Neemias Queta, a 7-foot center, spent three seasons at Utah State before the Sacramento Kings drafted him as the 39th overall pick in 2021.
In his first two professional seasons, Queta signed two-way contracts with the Kings, which allowed him to appear in a total of 20 NBA games, averaging 7.5 minutes per game.
While his role with the Kings was modest, Queta showcased his skills in the G League with the Stockton Kings. During the 2022/23 season, he not only earned a place on the All-NBAGL First Team but also came in second in MVP voting.
His impressive stats included averages of 16.8 points per game, 8.7 rebounds per game, 2.4 assists per game, and 1.9 blocks per game, all in just 27.7 minutes per game across 29 regular-season appearances.
Neemias Queta is finalizing a 2-way deal with the Boston Celtics per @ShamsCharania
— ☘︎ (@CelticsRepublic) September 16, 2023
Queta, who hails from Portugal, made history as the NBA’s first player from his country. During this summer’s free agency, he was a restricted free agent and eventually signed a partially guaranteed two-year deal to return to the Kings.
However, Queta was waived by the Kings after they signed JaVale McGee to a guaranteed contract.
An important note is that the 7-foot center had suffered a stress reaction and sprain in his right foot during July’s Summer League action.
Nevertheless, this injury occurred more than two months ago, and the Celtics have evidently conducted thorough assessments of Queta’s health to make this signing.
The addition of Neemias Queta to the Boston Celtics adds depth to their roster and provides an opportunity for the young center to continue his promising basketball journey in the NBA.