The Brisbane Bullets have wasted no time finding a replacement for injured Lithuanian star Arnas Velička, announcing the signing of a former NBA guard with more than 400 games of experience under his belt.
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With Velička recently ruled out for up to eight weeks with a quad injury, the Bullets have confirmed the signing of Brazilian point guard Raul Neto as an Injury Replacement Player (IRP).
The 6-foot-2 guard arrives in Brisbane with a wealth of experience, having enjoyed a decorated career across the NBA, EuroLeague and international basketball, including two Olympic Games.
Selected with the 47th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, Neto went on to spend eight seasons in the NBA between 2015 and 2023, appearing in 435 regular-season games and 14 playoff games across stints with the Utah Jazz, Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Wizards and Cleveland Cavaliers.
His best season came during the 2020-21 campaign with the Wizards, where he played alongside NBA superstar Russell Westbrook, averaging 8.7 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists while shooting 46.8% from the field.
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Neto is perhaps best known for his time with the Jazz, where he made 218 appearances and shared the court with current Melbourne United forward and Australian basketball star Joe Ingles.
On the international stage, Neto has been a long-time representative of Brazil, competing at major tournaments including two Olympic Games, FIBA Basketball World Cups and FIBA World Championships.
Now, the experienced guard is preparing for a new challenge in the NBL, with the opportunity to join Brisbane arriving at an ideal time as he looks to prepare for Brazil’s upcoming FIBA international window.
“I was looking for somewhere I could compete at a high level while preparing for the national team,” Neto said.
“The NBL is a very competitive league and a new challenge for me. I’m excited for the opportunity to experience the league, compete against some great players and be part of the Bullets program.
“I believe in what Will Weaver and the Bullets are building, and I’m looking forward to being part of the program and competing with this group.”
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Brisbane Bullets head coach and President of Basketball Operations Will Weaver welcomed Neto’s arrival, believing his experience and leadership will provide a valuable boost to the squad as they look to navigate Velička’s absence.
“Raul brings a wealth of experience from the NBA, Europe and international basketball,” Weaver said.
“His excitement to join us reflects the reputation our club is building & we’re excited for how he can help us compete during his time in Brisbane.”
The Bullets are yet to confirm when Neto will be available to make his NBL debut, with Fox Sports Australia reaching out to the club for clarification.