By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Boston Celtics are quietly assembling a versatile group of European talent, moving away from past championship formats toward a deeper, more connected style of play. At the preseason media day on Monday, the roster’s international core showed they clearly understand what head coach Joe Mazzulla expects. For these players, the pressure of playing in Boston is a welcome challenge.
Luka Garza stands out as a prime example of this relentless drive. The Bosnian center enters his second year with the franchise carrying a lot of confidence after leading all NBA centers in three-point shooting. Garza points to hard work as the source of his 43% efficiency. The former Iowa standout sharpens his game every summer, testing himself against top European bigs during FIBA windows. “I understand what my job is,” he stated flatly. “I’m going to go out there every night to do it.”
Hugo Gonzalez brings a similar maturity from Spain. He feels much more comfortable in his second year because the city finally feels like home. The Madrid native likes to watch the more experienced players closely, acting like a sponge to pick up their habits. He noticed the team doesn’t let mistakes slide, even during informal summer runs. Players stop and talk out their issues right away. “That builds character for the future seasons,” he noted.
Like Garza and Gonzalez, Portuguese Neemias Queta also represented his country in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Qualifiers during the offseason. Transitioning from the first offensive option with Portugal to a different role with the Celtics, his presence inside makes things easier for the guards, allowing them to pressure the ball knowing they have protection at the rim. “I think our big fella university is pretty exciting,” he talked about the crowded rotation in the paint. “Whoever gets called upon, I got 100% confidence that we’ll deliver.”
The C’s formally open training camp on Tuesday, moving their focus to their preseason schedule, before opening the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season against the Detroit Pistons in Little Caesars Arena on October 20.
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