
Sources: Collier back to Lynx on supermax deal
Napheesa Collier signs supermax contract to return to the Lynx
Neemias Queta, the first NBA player from Portugal, emphasizes his focus on personal enjoyment and friendships in basketball rather than feeling pressured to represent his country. He acknowledges the significance of his success for Portugal but prefers to play without the burden of being an ambassador for Portuguese basketball.
Mentioned in this story
Neemias Queta knows that, as the first NBA player from Portugal and a centerpiece of the Portuguese National Team, that his success means a lot to his home country. But he also does not feel the need to be the standard-bearer for the sport in his native country or some sort of ambassador of Portuguese basketball either -- and for good reason.
Speaking on an episode of teammate Derrick White's "White Noise" podcast, the Lisbon native was asked if he felt any additional pressure because of his status as the first to make the NBA from Portugal. "No, because I try and be myself at the end of the day," said the Celtics center.
"A lot of people may try and put that responsibility on my shoulders, but ... I never wanted to play basketball for that," he explained. "Basketball is my safe haven – this is where I really have fun. I made so many friendships through basketball, and again (it) opened so many opportunities for me that I don't see it as that."
Neemias Queta is the first NBA player from Portugal and a key player for the Portuguese National Team, symbolizing hope and pride for his home country.
Queta states that he does not feel additional pressure to be a standard-bearer for Portuguese basketball, as he prefers to focus on enjoying the game and building friendships.
Queta acknowledges the responsibility of sharing his experiences with young players but believes that taking on too much pressure could hinder his performance.

Napheesa Collier signs supermax contract to return to the Lynx

NWSL Board to Decide on Major Calendar Change This Month
Maryland women's lacrosse suffers a 15-4 defeat against Michigan, marking their second straight loss.
Red Wings know which first-round pick they lost to Blues in Faulk trade
Spencer Strider shows promise in rehab start, nearing Braves return
Understanding the Maple Leafs' Draft Pick Dilemma with the Bruins
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.