The Boston Celtics opened their 2025-26 campaign with a tough 117-116 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. But amid the heartbreak came a breakout performance from Neemias Queta.
Starting for just the seventh time in his career, the 25-year-old center made the most of it, scoring 17 points and grabbing 8 rebounds in 25 minutes on 7-of-8 shooting. It was confident, efficient basketball—perhaps his most complete showing yet at TD Garden.
### A Confident Start
From the opening tip, Queta looked locked in. He scored Boston’s first basket within seconds, finishing a clean pick-and-roll with Derrick White. It set the tone for his night: active, decisive, and fully in rhythm.
Six of his seven field goals came off assists, proof of how seamlessly he fit within the Celtics’ offense. His chemistry with White stood out most, as the pair repeatedly punished the Sixers’ switches.
“He was great,” White said after the game. “Just being available. Obviously, a big target. Soft touch around the hoop as well. That’s the Neemi we’re going to need the whole year.”
### Celtics Offense Built Around Movement
Joe Mazzulla’s system leaned perfectly into Queta’s strengths — rim running, screening, and catching lobs in stride. It felt reminiscent of how Brad Stevens once used Robert Williams III: simple actions built on pace and trust.
Queta showed improved touch and patience around the rim, finishing through contact and converting tough catches in traffic. He also went 3-for-5 at the line, a solid mark given his past inconsistency.
### Mazzulla’s Message: Standards Are High
After the game, Mazzulla praised Queta’s effort but in the same breath raised the bar higher.
“He did some really good things,” Mazzulla said. “The standard is high for him. I thought he answered the call.”
For a coach known for his precision and accountability, that’s saying something. Queta isn’t just earning minutes—he’s earning trust.
### Fouls Still a Concern
Queta’s one real setback came late in the game. He picked up his sixth foul with under two minutes left, sending Tyrese Maxey to the line and giving Philadelphia a lifeline. The 76ers closed on an 8-0 run to steal the game.
It was a frustrating ending to an otherwise strong performance. But it shouldn’t overshadow what Queta brought: energy, presence, and confidence in a role Boston badly needed filled.
### Encouraging Signs for the Celtics
The Celtics’ rotation is still taking shape, and early-season roles remain fluid. But Queta’s debut as a starter offered something Boston’s frontcourt has lacked since Williams’ departure—a steady, low-maintenance big who fits the flow.
He doesn’t force shots or slow the offense. He screens, rolls, defends, and makes the simple play.
For a team built around stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, that kind of reliability matters.
https://heavy.com/sports/nba/boston-celtics/neemias-queta-celtics-season-opener/
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