Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta confirmed he will not spend $100,000 to train with Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon, choosing instead to rely on internal player development following his four-year, $56 million contract extension.
The 27-year-old big man posted 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game last season.
His new deal, which averages $14 million annually, kicks in ahead of the 2027-28 NBA season, while he will earn $2.6 million in the upcoming campaign.
Speaking to Portuguese media outlet A Bola, Queta made his position clear regarding pricey private summer workouts with the legendary center.
"I'm stingy," said Queta. "No, I don't spend $100,000 on training."
When asked if he would alter his stance for specialized instruction with Olajuwon, Queta reaffirmed his choice.
"Not even with Hakeem Olajuwon," said Queta.
Rather than hiring outside trainers, Queta is focusing on expanding his skillset through Boston's player development staff.
He aims to improve his defensive versatility against smaller guards while refining his perimeter shooting and low-post ball control for the 2026-27 season.
"Defensively, I'm working hard on switching and being more able to hold my own against smaller players in one-on-one situations without help," said Queta.
"I feel confident in that aspect; you can always be more comfortable."
Beyond defensive adjustments, the big man is focusing on offensive growth in the low post and along the perimeter.
"Offensively, it's about having the ball in my hands," said Queta.
"Being able to have tighter ball control, being able to create one-on-one situations in the low post, spacing the floor, having a more consistent shot and having a greater offensive impact."
Addressing his financial extension, Queta emphasized that long-term stability in Boston outweighed the total dollar figure of the deal.
"For me, the money wasn't the most important thing at all," said Queta. "The most important thing was knowing that Boston believed in me for another four years."
He noted that securing his future allows him to perform without the distraction of impending free agency.
"I'll be able to continue calling Boston home for that entire time, without having to look over my shoulder," said Queta.
"Without having to worry about the next season, what I wanted or what would happen."
Avoiding contract uncertainty was a major factor in agreeing to the extension ahead of time.
"There's uncertainty when you're a free agent," said Queta.
"It creates certain difficulties in terms of knowing how to manage the year, injuries and everything else, and I didn't want to be thinking about that."
Queta added that he was eager to remain with the team that gave him his primary opportunity.
