Jacquelynn Hoskins

Written by Jacquelynn Hoskins

Published: 04 Nov 2025

25-facts-about-neemias-queta
Source: Bostonglobe.com

Who is Neemias Queta? Neemias Queta is a rising star in the basketball world. Born in Portugal, he has quickly made a name for himself with his impressive skills on the court. Standing at 7 feet tall, Queta is known for his shot-blocking ability, rebounding prowess, and overall defensive presence. He played college basketball for the Utah State Aggies, where he earned multiple accolades and set records. In 2021, Neemias was drafted by the Sacramento Kings, making history as the first Portuguese player to be drafted into the NBA. His journey from Portugal to the NBA is nothing short of inspiring.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Neemias Queta's journey to professional basketball is filled with interesting details. Let's dive into his early life and background.

  1. Neemias Queta was born on July 13, 1999, in Barreiro, Portugal, a city known for its rich cultural heritage.
  2. He grew up in a sports-loving family, which influenced his passion for basketball from a young age.
  3. Queta's parents are originally from Guinea-Bissau, making him of African descent.
  4. He started playing basketball at the age of 10, showing early promise with his height and athleticism.
  5. Before focusing on basketball, Queta played soccer, a popular sport in Portugal.

College Career

Neemias Queta's college career at Utah State University was nothing short of impressive. Here are some key highlights.

  1. Queta joined Utah State University in 2018, quickly becoming a standout player.
  2. During his freshman year, he averaged 11.8 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.
  3. He was named the Mountain West Conference Freshman of the Year in 2019.
  4. Queta set a school record for most blocks in a single season with 84 during his freshman year.
  5. He declared for the NBA Draft after his junior year, leaving a lasting legacy at Utah State.

Professional Career

Neemias Queta's professional career has been marked by significant milestones and achievements. Let's explore them.

  1. Queta was selected by the Sacramento Kings as the 39th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.
  2. He became the first Portuguese player to be drafted into the NBA.
  3. Queta signed a two-way contract with the Kings, allowing him to play in both the NBA and the G League.
  4. He made his NBA debut on December 17, 2021, against the Memphis Grizzlies.
  5. Queta recorded his first NBA points in a game against the Los Angeles Clippers on December 22, 2021.

Playing Style and Skills

Neemias Queta's playing style and skills set him apart on the court. Here are some key aspects.

  1. Queta is known for his shot-blocking ability, making him a defensive powerhouse.
  2. Standing at 7 feet tall, his height gives him an advantage in rebounding and shot contests.
  3. He has a wingspan of 7 feet 4 inches, which helps him disrupt passing lanes and alter shots.
  4. Queta's agility and footwork are impressive for a player of his size, allowing him to guard multiple positions.
  5. He has shown improvement in his offensive game, particularly in scoring around the rim and mid-range shooting.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond basketball, Neemias Queta has a life filled with interesting hobbies and personal interests.

  1. Queta is fluent in Portuguese and English, reflecting his multicultural background.
  2. He enjoys playing video games during his downtime, with NBA 2K being one of his favorites.
  3. Queta is passionate about giving back to his community and has participated in various charitable events.
  4. He has a close-knit relationship with his family, often sharing moments with them on social media.
  5. Queta is a fan of Portuguese cuisine, with "bacalhau" (salted codfish) being one of his favorite dishes.

Neemias Queta: A Rising Star

Neemias Queta's journey from Portugal to the NBA is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, hard work, and unique skills have made him a standout player. From his impressive college stats to becoming the first Portuguese player drafted into the NBA, Queta's story is a testament to perseverance. His defensive prowess, shot-blocking ability, and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to any team. Off the court, Queta's humility and commitment to giving back to his community further highlight his character. As he continues to grow and develop in the NBA, fans and aspiring athletes alike can look to Queta as a role model. Keep an eye on this rising star; his journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come.

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