NBA analyst publicly apologizes to Celtics player Nemeans Queta after Monster Game originally appeared on NESN. Click here to add NESN as your preferred source.
Going into this season, no one knew what Nemeans Queta would bring to the table. After serving as the Boston Celtics’ fourth center last year, he was suddenly thrust into the starting role following the offseason departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford and Luke Kornet.
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Queta has thrived in his new role, becoming one of the best two-way centers in the league. He played in 57 games this season, averaging 10.1 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, helping the Celtics rank second in the Eastern Conference with a record of 40 wins and 20 losses.
He was coming off the best game of his career, dominating the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday night with 27 points, 17 rebounds and three blocks. He had a double-double in the half and earned MVP chants from the TD Garden fans in the fourth quarter.
After the game, NBA analyst Keith Smith publicly apologized to Queta on X.
“The apology should be as loud as the mistake: I didn’t think Nemeans Queta was ready to be the starting center. I was wrong. He’s more than ready and has been great for the Celtics this season. And he’s still getting better!” Smith wrote.
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Smith isn’t the only one underestimating the 26-year-old big man entering the upcoming season. Not even the most optimistic Boston fans expected this.
Queta’s rebounding, inside presence and defense will be crucial for a Celtics team that appears to be severely lacking this year. He has far exceeded expectations this year, as has the entire team.
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