When Neemias Queta stepped off the court on Saturday against the Wizards, it was Luka Garza who was first to congratulate him with a chest bump. Queta had just put up a stellar performance, racking up 24 points, 10 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a steal, and Garza was all in to celebrate his teammate's success.
This camaraderie between the Celtics' big men has been a hallmark of their season. Whenever one shines, the other is there to support, almost as if they share the triumph.
"We're definitely great friends," Garza shared before the game. And it showed. As Queta lit up the first half with a career-high 22 points, Garza was the first to cheer every basket, every putback, every crafty finish.
In the second half, the roles flipped. Garza found his rhythm, scoring 15 points himself, and this time, it was Queta's turn to rise from the bench with enthusiasm.
"When I'm on the bench, I just try to cheer him up as much as I can," Queta noted. "Maybe learn a little bit with the crashing and being able to get offensive rebounds."
Together, Queta and Garza combined for 39 points, marking their highest-scoring game as teammates. Despite their different backgrounds-Queta from Portugal and Garza from Virginia-they've forged a strong bond in Boston.
Their journey to the NBA has been similar, both drafted in 2021's second round and both fighting for their place in the league. Queta was picked by the Kings, Garza by the Pistons, and both have navigated the ups and downs of two-way contracts and G League stints.
"There’s a level of respect from both our journeys," Garza explained. "Both being second-round picks, in and out of the G League, not really getting a chance. This year, getting the biggest opportunities of our careers, there's a lot of support for each other."
This season, both are playing their best basketball. Queta, after serving as the fourth-string center last year, has started every game he's played, averaging 10 points and 8.4 rebounds in 25 minutes per game. He's solidified his reputation as a top-tier defender.
Garza, meanwhile, is averaging a career-high 7.2 points and 3.9 rebounds in just under 16 minutes per game, appearing in 56 of the Celtics' 67 games. His three-point shooting has jumped to 42.1%, a significant leap from last season. Though his role has seen fluctuations, especially after Nikola Vucevic joined the team, Garza has remained ready.
"If I'm not playing, I'm focused on growth and development," Garza said. "That helps keep my mind right and in shape. So when the chance comes, I'm ready."
Garza's consistent preparation paid off when Vucevic suffered an injury, allowing him to step back into the rotation seamlessly.
"My routine never changes," Garza noted. "You never know what can happen.
I've seen guys miss opportunities because they're not ready. Those small chances can change your life, your career."
On Saturday, Garza's readiness was evident as he scored 15 points on efficient shooting. Even when he's not on the court, he's closely observing Queta, learning from his defensive positioning.
"I'm locked in on him," Garza said. "Watching how he sets screens, how he's treated by defenders. It's critical information for when I'm in the game."
Queta, in turn, studies Garza's knack for offensive rebounding. "He's such a workhorse," Queta remarked. "He really makes his mark on the game."
Coach Joe Mazzulla appreciates what both players bring to the team. "They're versatile and impact matchups and coverages," Mazzulla said.
"They understand their roles and need each other. It's part of being a good team."
Off the court, the friendship between Queta and Garza has grown, sharing meals and building a deeper connection.
"Neemi's an awesome dude," Garza said. "This team is really connected."
Their friendship is just one example of the strong relationships fueling the Celtics' success. The goal is clear: to win, and Queta and Garza are doing their part to make that happen.