Neemias Queta Dunked Over Luka Doncic in Celtics vs Lakers Game on Feb 22, 2026

Neemias Queta dunked over Luka Doncic early in the game. This is a big play in the famous Celtics-Lakers rivalry.
By Newsroom | NBA, Basketball |

A notable play occurred early in the Boston Celtics versus Los Angeles Lakers game on February 22, 2026, when Neemias Queta executed a dunk over Luka Dončić. This event, happening in the first quarter, drew attention within the context of the historic rivalry between the two teams.

Game and Play Details

The play transpired with 9:35 remaining in the first quarter. Neemias Queta, the 7-foot center for the Boston Celtics, was involved in an offensive sequence that led to the dunk.

  • Sequence of Events: Queta set a screen for Derrick White. He then received a bounce pass from White as he moved toward the basket. Luka Dončić of the Lakers moved into the restricted area to attempt to contest Queta's shot.

  • The Dunk: Queta then elevated and completed a one-handed dunk over Dončić.

This highlight occurred within a game that featured significant matchups and individual performances. While the provided box score data is extensive, it details many plays. The specific interaction involving Queta and Dončić stands out as a highlight moment early in the contest.

Neemias Queta throws down dunk over Luka Doncic early in Celtics-Lakers - 1

Player Context

Neemias Queta's Performance

Leading into the game on February 22, 2026, Neemias Queta was having a productive season.

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  • Season Averages: He was averaging 9.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game.

  • Recent Season Insights: There is a mention of Queta showing readiness for a larger role with the Celtics, even in the context of playing with Portugal. It's also noted that he managed a knee ailment and did not attribute his reduced involvement late in the previous season to it.

Luka Dončić's Involvement

Luka Dončić is a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers. In the game itself, he was involved in various plays, including scoring opportunities and defensive actions.

  • Game Stats (Extracted): The provided box score lists numerous actions by Dončić, such as scoring layups, attempting jump shots, and drawing fouls. For instance, there are entries like "Luka Doncic makes two point driving finger roll layup" and "Luka Doncic misses two point driving floating jump shot."

Significance and Rivalry

The Celtics-Lakers matchup is one of the most storied rivalries in the NBA. Events like a prominent dunk involving star players often add to the narrative of these games. The "poster dunk" or dunk over a defender is a visually impactful play that can energize a team and its fanbase.

Evidence

  • Game Play Description: "With 9:35 remaining in the first quarter, Boston center Neemias Queta slammed a dunk past Lakers star Luka Doncic. The 7-foot center then easily elevated over Doncic to throw down a one-handed jam. … The movement prompted Doncic to slide into the restricted area to contest Queta. Queta set a pick for Derrick White, then received a bounce pass from White as he rolled to the basket." (Article 2)

  • Confirmation of Dunk: "Neemias Queta makes two point cutting dunk (Jaylen Brown assists)" (Article 3 - Box Score)

  • Player Averages: "averaging 9.7 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks heading into Sunday." (Article 1)

  • Game Date Context: The box score is labeled "NBA_20260222_BOS@LAL," indicating the game took place on February 22, 2026.

Expert Analysis

  • The play is described as "historic" in the context of the Celtics-Lakers rivalry, highlighting the significance of such moments in high-profile games. (Article 2)

Conclusion

On February 22, 2026, during the first quarter of the Boston Celtics versus Los Angeles Lakers game, Neemias Queta of the Celtics executed a dunk over Luka Dončić of the Lakers. This play, occurring with 9:35 left in the quarter, involved a pick-and-roll action and a subsequent dunk by Queta as Dončić attempted to contest. The event is noted for its visual impact and its place within the ongoing rivalry between the two franchises. Queta's performance this season, with averages including nearly 10 points and over 8 rebounds, provides context for his capability.

Read More: Phoenix Suns Player Dillon Brooks Breaks Left Hand, Missing Games

Sources Used:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened between Neemias Queta and Luka Doncic on February 22, 2026?
In the first quarter of the Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers game on February 22, 2026, Neemias Queta dunked the ball over Luka Doncic. The play happened with 9:35 left in the quarter.
Q: How did Neemias Queta dunk over Luka Doncic in the Celtics-Lakers game?
Neemias Queta set a screen for Derrick White and then got a bounce pass from White. As Queta moved to the basket, Luka Doncic tried to block the shot, but Queta dunked over him.
Q: What are Neemias Queta's stats from the 2025-2026 season?
Before the February 22, 2026 game, Neemias Queta was averaging 9.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game for the Boston Celtics.
Q: Why is the Celtics vs. Lakers game important?
The Celtics and Lakers have one of the most famous rivalries in the NBA. Plays like this dunk by Neemias Queta over Luka Doncic add excitement to these important games.