Queta turns down Olajuwon lessons: “They cost too much”
Neemias Queta turned down private training sessions with Hakeem Olajuwon, explaining that he does not want to spend $100,000 for a summer workout. A statement that immediately sparked debate
In the NBA offseason landscape, relying on advice and private lessons from the greats of the past has almost become a tradition among modern big men. From LeBron James, to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid, many players have not hesitated in the past to spend eye-watering sums for a summer workout with Houston Rockets legend Hakeem Olajuwon.
An exclusive development experience that costs around $100,000 per week. Interviewed by Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta showed that he has completely different ideas compared to his peers. Asked whether his new lucrative contract extension would convince him to invest a similar amount to train with “The Dream,” the 27-year-old responded candidly:
I’m cheap. I would never spend $100,000 on summer workouts. Not even if Hakeem Olajuwon was on the other side
Neemias Queta
A statement worthy of applause for its directness and pragmatism. No disrespect toward the old Hakeem, of course, but rather the pure perspective of someone who had to fight his way through adversity before finding stability in the best basketball league on the planet.
For Queta, who went through two-way contracts, short-term deals and the constant fear of being waived, that four-year, $56 million extension ($14 million per season on average) represents the end of a nightmare and the luxury of no longer having to look over his shoulder every time the market opens.
The most important thing for me was not the money at all, but knowing that Boston believes in me for the next four years. I’ll be able to continue considering Boston my home without having to look over my shoulder or worry about the following season. Free agency always brings a lot of uncertainty and affects how you manage the physical and emotional side of the year. I’m grateful for the trust from the front office
Neemias Queta
The Boston big man’s recipe for taking the next step heading into the upcoming season does not include basketball gurus or high-profile consultants. Queta will continue grinding at home with the Celtics development staff: hard work on defensive switches against smaller players on the perimeter and better ball control when attacking the rim.