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Raul Neto
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Raul "Raulzinho" Togni Neto (Brazilian Portuguese: [ʁaˈuw toɲɲi ˈnɛtu]; born 19 May 1992) is a Brazilian professional basketball player for San Pablo Burgos of the Spanish Liga ACB. He is also a member of the senior men's Brazilian national basketball team. Neto also holds an Italian passport.[1]

Key Information

Professional career

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Neto was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with the 47th pick in the 2013 NBA draft. He was then immediately traded to the Utah Jazz.

Minas Tênis Clube (2008–2011)

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Neto made his professional debut in 2008 with Minas Tênis Clube during the 2008–09 FIBA Americas League. He played a further three seasons for Minas and even represented the World Team at the 2010 Nike Hoop Summit.

Gipuzkoa (2011–2014)

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After averaging 12.6 points and 2.2 assists per game as a sixth man for Minas in 2010–11, Neto signed with Lagun Aro GBC of Spain for the 2011–12 season. After averaging 8.5 points and 2.9 assists per game during the 2012–13 season with Lagun Aro GBC, Neto was selected with the 47th overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks. He was later traded to the Utah Jazz on draft night.[2] However, he did not join the Jazz and instead returned to Lagun Aro GBC for the 2013–14 season.[3]

Murcia (2014–2015)

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On August 1, 2014, Neto signed a three-year deal with UCAM Murcia.[4] He parted ways with the club following the 2014–15 season in order to sign in the NBA.[5]

Utah Jazz (2015–2019)

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On July 9, 2015, Neto signed with the Utah Jazz.[6] He made his debut for the Jazz in the team's season opener against the Detroit Pistons on October 28, 2015, recording 8 points and 3 assists as a starter in a 92–87 loss.[7] On January 27, 2016, Neto was selected to the 2016 Rising Stars Challenge as a member of the World Team.[8] On February 19, 2016, he scored a season-high 15 points in a 111–93 win over the Boston Celtics.[9] On January 9, 2017, he spent a day with the Salt Lake City Stars, Utah's D-League affiliate.[10][11] He was reassigned to Salt Lake City on January 11, 2017,[12] and then recalled the next day.[13] He played 9 of 11 matches of the Jazz during the playoffs. On July 6, 2018, Neto re-signed with the Jazz.[14] On July 2, 2019, Neto was waived by the Jazz due to the Mike Conley trade with Grizzlies.

Philadelphia 76ers (2019–2020)

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On July 4, 2019, Neto agreed to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.[15][16]

Washington Wizards (2020–2022)

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On November 22, 2020, Neto signed with the Washington Wizards.[17] As a member of the 2020-2021 Wizards, Neto appeared in 5 playoff games and started in 3.[18]

Cleveland Cavaliers (2022–2023)

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On July 8, 2022, Neto signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers on a one-year, $2,463,490 contract.[19]

On August 5, 2023, Neto signed a one-year deal with Fenerbahçe Beko.[20][21] However, he never played for the team, because on August 26 he suffered a knee injury playing for the Brazilian national basketball team in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, which kept him out of action for almost a year. On July 8, 2024, during an interview, Neto revealed that Fenerbahçe terminated his contract after the injury and never officially communicated their decision.[22]

Esporte Clube Pinheiros São Paulo (2024)

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On October 15, 2024, Neto returned to Brazil as he signed a contract with Pinheiros Basquete.[23]

FC Barcelona (2024–2025)

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Neto was announced as a new FC Barcelona player on November 24, 2024, signing a contract for the remainder of the season. The Barcelona board chose Neto after the season-ending injury suffered by point guard Nicolás Laprovíttola had left a vacant spot in the roster.[24] On December 1, 2024, the club announced Neto would be out for four weeks due to an adductor injury.[25] Neto's contract with Barcelona would be terminated in January 2025 after a mutual agreement between the club and the player. The agreement took place after Neto suffered another injury to his left hamstring, making his stay at Barcelona barely over a month long and only making 2 appearances for the Catalans.[26]

San Pablo Burgos (2025–present)

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On July 3, 2025, Neto was announced as a new player by San Pablo Burgos of the Liga ACB.[27]

Career statistics

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Legend
  GP Games played   GS  Games started  MPG  Minutes per game
 FG%  Field goal percentage  3P%  3-point field goal percentage  FT%  Free throw percentage
 RPG  Rebounds per game  APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game
 BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game  Bold  Career high

NBA

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Regular season

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2015–16 Utah 81 53 18.5 .431 .395 .743 1.5 2.1 .8 .0 5.9
2016–17 Utah 40 0 8.6 .451 .323 .889 .8 .9 .5 .1 2.5
2017–18 Utah 41 0 12.1 .457 .404 .743 1.2 1.8 .3 .1 4.5
2018–19 Utah 37 1 12.8 .460 .333 .848 1.7 2.5 .4 .1 5.3
2019–20 Philadelphia 54 3 12.4 .455 .386 .830 1.1 1.8 .4 .1 5.1
2020–21 Washington 64 22 21.9 .468 .390 .882 2.4 2.3 1.1 .1 8.7
2021–22 Washington 70 19 19.6 .463 .292 .769 1.9 3.1 .8 .0 7.5
2022–23 Cleveland 48 1 10.5 .518 .286 .912 1.0 1.6 .4 .1 3.3
Career 435 99 15.6 .458 .361 .812 1.5 2.1 .6 .1 5.7

Playoffs

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2017 Utah 9 0 6.7 .615 .500 1.000 .8 .4 .1 .1 2.6
2018 Utah 8 0 9.0 .304 .286 1.000 1.3 1.3 .3 .0 2.6
2019 Utah 3 0 6.5 .167 .000 1.0 .3 .0 .0 .7
2020 Philadelphia 2 0 13.0 .333 .400 1.5 1.5 .5 .0 4.0
2021 Washington 5 3 22.4 .353 .267 .800 2.2 1.0 .4 .0 6.4
2023 Cleveland 2 0 3.5 .000 .000 .500 .0 .5 .0 .0 .5
Career 29 3 10.2 .360 .314 .875 1.2 .8 .2 .0 3.0

National team career

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Neto gained attention after leading the Brazil under-18 team to an impressive runners-up showing at the 2010 FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship.[28] He followed that up by being the youngest member of the senior Brazil national basketball team during the 2010 FIBA World Championship, but played sparingly. He later participated for the senior national team at the 2012 Summer Olympics, the 2013 FIBA AmeriCup, and the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup. During the World Cup, he had a strong performance against Argentina in the round of 16, when he scored 21 points to lead Brazil to a win.[29] Neto also played at the 2016 Summer Olympics.[30]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Raul Neto, also known as Raulzinho, is a Brazilian professional basketball player who serves as a for San Pablo Burgos of the Spanish . Born on May 19, 1992, in , , he stands at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) tall and shoots right-handed. Neto began his professional career in Brazil before moving to Spain's with Lagun Aro GBC in 2011, where he developed as a promising . In the , Neto was selected by the with the 47th overall pick in the second round, with his rights immediately traded to the in exchange for a future second-round pick. He joined the for the 2015–16 season after spending time in the NBA Development League and with Spanish clubs, marking him as one of the few Brazilian players to establish an NBA career. Over eight NBA seasons from 2015 to 2023, Neto played for the (2015–2019), (2019–2020), (2020–2022), and (2022–2023), appearing in 435 regular-season games with career averages of 5.7 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while shooting 45.8% from the field and 35.9% from three-point range. His standout NBA season came in 2020–21 with the , where he averaged 8.7 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 68 games. Neto has been a key member of the Brazil national team since debuting at the as the youngest player on the roster. He earned a silver medal with Brazil's U18 squad at the 2010 FIBA Americas Championship and later contributed to senior team efforts, including scoring 21 points in a 2014 FIBA World Cup round-of-16 victory over . Neto represented Brazil at the Olympics in 2012, 2016, and 2024, helping elevate the profile of Brazilian basketball internationally. After missing the 2023–24 season due to injury, Neto returned to professional play in by signing with Pinheiros Basquete in October 2024, where he appeared in five games before joining in November 2024 for the remainder of the 2024–25 campaign. He parted ways with in 2025 following a injury. In July 2025, he inked a one-year deal with San Pablo Burgos ahead of their 2025–26 season, reuniting with the league where he honed his skills earlier in his career.

Early life

Youth and introduction to basketball

Raul Neto was born on May 19, 1992, in , the capital of state in . His family had deep ties to , with his father, Raul Togni Filho, a former professional player who competed in . Filho not only introduced Neto to the sport but also served as his first coach, fostering a strong emphasis on fundamentals like defense, shooting, and team play. His mother and two brothers—both of whom also played the game—provided additional support and encouragement for his athletic pursuits. Neto's introduction to basketball began in his childhood home, where basketballs were always available due to his father's profession, sparking his interest almost as soon as he could walk. He started playing casually around the age of five, often joining his brothers on local courts in , and transitioned to more dedicated practice by age eight, training daily to hone his skills. This early immersion was supported by community basketball programs and school initiatives in , which provided accessible opportunities for youth in the region to develop their talents amid Brazil's growing culture. From the outset, Neto's physical profile—standing at approximately 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) with notable agility and quickness—naturally suited him for the point guard position, where his father's guidance emphasized playmaking, vision, and defensive tenacity over raw athleticism. These foundational years in laid the groundwork for his rapid progression, as he balanced family-driven motivation with local training to build the court awareness that would define his style.

Amateur and junior career

Neto began his basketball development in the youth system of in , where he trained intensively as a young starting around age 14. During this period, he competed in regional Brazilian youth leagues, building foundational skills in ball-handling and playmaking through local programs in . At age 17, Neto earned a spot on the under-18 national team, marking a significant milestone in his junior career. He represented at the in , , as part of a 18-player roster averaging 17 years old, facing teams like , , and in preliminary rounds. Neto's standout performances came during the 2010 FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship in , , where he averaged 15.4 points, 4.8 field goals made on 11.2 attempts (42.9% shooting), and contributed significantly to Brazil's finish after a narrow 81-78 loss to the in the final. In one key semifinal game against , he recorded 9 points and 2 assists, helping secure a 70-56 victory. These achievements highlighted his emerging leadership and drew early international scouting attention.

Professional career

Early career in Brazil (2008–2011)

Raul Neto signed his first professional contract with at the age of 16 in 2008, entering the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) as a promising from . In his debut 2008–09 NBB season, Neto served primarily as a , appearing in just 7 games and averaging 1.7 points, 0.9 assists, and 0.4 rebounds per game while adjusting to professional play. That year, Minas finished third in the regular season standings and advanced to the playoffs semifinals, showcasing a competitive team environment for the young guard's development. Neto's role expanded during the 2009–10 season, where he played in 34 games, boosting his averages to 5.6 points, 2.4 assists, and 1.3 rebounds per game as he gained more minutes and experience in the league. Minas again qualified for the , finishing in the top eight and providing Neto with valuable postseason exposure. The 2010–11 season marked Neto's breakout, as he solidified his position as a , playing 31 games and averaging 12.6 points, 2.2 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game while contributing to Minas's offensive flow. The team ended the fifth with a 19–9 record, securing another playoff berth and highlighting Neto's growing impact. Following this strong performance, Neto decided to move to for enhanced competitive opportunities and skill refinement, a common path for emerging Brazilian talents, signing with Lagun Aro GBC of Spain's ahead of the 2011–12 season.

European leagues (2011–2015)

In 2011, following a successful season in Brazil with Minas Tênis Clube, Raul Neto signed his first professional contract overseas with Lagun Aro GBC (later known as Gipuzkoa Basket) of Spain's , marking his transition to European . This move required Neto to adapt to the faster-paced, more tactical style of play in , which emphasized team defense and perimeter shooting compared to the Brazilian NBB league. During his debut 2011–12 season, he appeared in 34 games off the bench, averaging 5.7 points, 2.0 assists, and 1.8 rebounds in 17.2 minutes per game, while shooting 43.9% from the field. Neto's role expanded in the 2012–13 ACB season, where he became a key rotational player for , contributing to the team's efforts amid relegation pressures. He averaged 8.5 points and 2.9 assists per game across the season, showcasing improved playmaking and scoring efficiency that caught international scouts' attention. In the held on June 27, Neto was selected 47th overall in the second round by the ; his draft rights were immediately traded to the in exchange for a future second-round pick. Despite the selection, Neto remained with for the 2013–14 season, where he started more frequently and posted career-high averages of 10.1 points, 3.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds in 27.5 minutes over 27 games, with shooting splits of 43.8% from the field and 33.8% from three-point range. The period was not without hurdles, including a fractured in early 2014 that sidelined him temporarily during the ACB campaign, testing his resilience amid the physical demands of European competition. Language barriers also posed initial challenges, as Neto, who spoke primarily , navigated coaching instructions and team dynamics in Spanish without fluent proficiency at the outset. These experiences honed his maturity and versatility as a . In August 2014, Neto advanced to a more prominent role by signing a three-year contract with UCAM of the ACB League, facilitating his promotion within Spain's top flight after Gipuzkoa's relegation battle. During the 2014–15 season, he solidified his status as a starter, averaging 8.9 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.1 rebounds in 22.4 minutes across 34 games, with a of 42.8%. His overall European stats from 2011 to 2015 reflected steady growth: approximately 8 points and 3 assists per game in the ACB, underscoring his adaptation and readiness for higher-level .

Utah Jazz (2015–2019)

Neto joined the Utah Jazz on July 9, 2015, signing a three-year rookie contract worth approximately $2.9 million after impressing in the NBA Summer League, where he averaged 11.7 points and 3.3 assists per game. His NBA debut came on October 27, 2015, against the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the first appearance by a Brazilian-born player in a regular-season game. During his rookie 2015–16 season, Neto received limited minutes off the bench behind starters like Trey Burke and Dante Exum, appearing in 56 games and averaging 2.7 points, 1.5 assists, and 0.7 rebounds in 10.8 minutes per game while shooting 41.1% from the field. In the 2016–17 season, Neto's role remained as a third-string point guard behind Ricky Rubio, but a fractured wrist sidelined him for 42 games, limiting him to 40 appearances with averages of 2.5 points and 0.9 assists in 8.7 minutes. He was assigned briefly to the Jazz's G League affiliate, the , on January 9 and 11, 2017, to aid his recovery and maintain game rhythm, though he did not play in those sessions. Despite the injury, Neto contributed to the Jazz's first playoff appearance since 2012, playing in nine games during their Western Conference first-round series against the , where he averaged 1.3 points in limited minutes as advanced in seven games. Neto's playing time increased in the 2017–18 season as a reliable backup to Rubio, appearing in 50 games with 4.0 points and 1.6 assists in 11.3 minutes per game. The following year, 2018–19, marked his most productive stretch with the Jazz, starting one game and averaging career-best marks for the team of 5.1 points and 2.4 assists in 14.1 minutes across 50 outings while shooting 44.7% from the field. On November 13, 2018, he was assigned to the Salt Lake City Stars for two games to sharpen his conditioning amid a crowded backcourt. In the playoffs, Neto provided key bench support during Utah's second-round series against the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors, playing 11 total games and averaging 3.3 points, including a playoff-career-high 12 points in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Rockets. On July 6, 2018, Neto agreed to a two-year contract extension with the worth $4.4 million, securing his future with the team through the 2019–20 season. As the 2018–19 season progressed, Neto drew interest from teams seeking backcourt depth, with reports linking him to potential deals amid Utah's push for roster upgrades. Ultimately, on July 1, 2019, the waived Neto as part of maneuvers to acquire Mike Conley from the , ending his four-year tenure in Utah.

Philadelphia 76ers (2019–2020)

On July 3, 2019, following his waiver by the earlier that month, Raul Neto signed a one-year veteran's minimum contract with the to provide depth at . In his role as a backup behind , who handled primary ball-handling duties, Neto appeared in 53 regular-season games during the 2019–20 campaign, averaging 5.1 points, 1.9 assists, and 12.2 minutes per game while shooting 45.5% from the field. His contributions were modest but steady, often providing relief in short bursts as the third option among the team's point guards, behind Simmons and . The season's abrupt suspension on March 11, 2020, due to the significantly altered Neto's opportunities, shortening the regular season and shifting play to the NBA bubble in Orlando. Resuming on , Neto participated in all eight of the 76ers' seeding games, where he showed flashes of productivity, including a career-high-tying 22 points off the bench in an August 11 loss to the . However, his minutes remained limited in the , appearing in just two games during Philadelphia's first-round sweep by the , totaling eight points. The bubble format and health protocols further constrained rotation spots, emphasizing the 76ers' reliance on core players amid the condensed schedule. After the conclusion of the 2019–20 season, Neto's one-year deal expired, making him an unrestricted in November 2020 without a renewal from .

Washington Wizards (2020–2022)

On November 22, 2020, Neto signed a one-year contract with the as a following his release from the . During the 2020–21 season, he emerged as a valuable reserve , earning 22 starts across 64 games while averaging career-high marks of 8.7 points, 2.3 assists, and 21.9 minutes per game. His efficient scoring, particularly from beyond the arc at 39.0 percent, helped stabilize the Wizards' backcourt amid injuries to other guards. The qualified for the as the eighth seed in the Eastern , facing the in the first round. Neto contributed off the bench in all five games of the series, averaging 6.4 points, 2.2 assists, and 22.4 minutes per game, with notable performances including 11 points in Game 5. Although the lost the series 4–1, Neto's steady play provided depth during the postseason run. Neto re-signed with the Wizards on August 7, 2021, to a one-year deal worth approximately $2.1 million. In the 2021–22 season, he appeared in 70 games with 19 starts, averaging 7.5 points and 3.1 assists per game in 19.6 minutes, though a left contusion early in the year and other minor ailments affected his consistency and minutes. Following the season, the Wizards declined to extend a qualifying offer, allowing Neto to enter unrestricted free agency on June 30, 2022.

Cleveland Cavaliers (2022–2023)

On July 7, 2022, Neto signed a one-year veteran minimum contract worth $2.46 million with the Cleveland Cavaliers, providing depth at point guard behind Darius Garland while Ricky Rubio recovered from an ACL injury. During the 2022–23 season, Neto appeared in 48 games for the Cavaliers, averaging 10.5 minutes, 3.3 points, 1.0 rebound, and 1.6 assists per game while shooting 51.8% from the field. His role remained limited as a third-string option, often serving as a reliable but seldom-used reserve in a backcourt led by Garland and Rubio upon his return. Neto contributed modestly to Cleveland's 51–31 record and Eastern Conference Finals appearance, but his opportunities dwindled late in the season amid the team's depth. Following the expiration of his contract, Neto became an unrestricted in July 2023 without receiving an extension offer from the Cavaliers. At age 31, he reflected on his diminishing NBA role, noting the challenges of inconsistent minutes as a : "It’s very hard if you aren’t a role player… You don’t play much." Seeking a more prominent position to extend his career, Neto signed with Fenerbahçe Beko of the Turkish Basketball Super League and in August 2023. However, shortly after, he suffered a ruptured in his right knee during Brazil's opening game of the 2023 against , preventing him from making any appearances for the club and leading to the termination of his contract later that year. This move marked the end of his eight-year NBA tenure, during which he expressed no regrets but emphasized his desire for sustained playing time: "I’m at an age that I still have a lot of in me and I think it’s the right time."

Return to Brazil and recent moves (2024–present)

Following the termination of his contract with Fenerbahçe Beko due to injury in 2024, Raul Neto returned to his native by signing a one-year contract with Esporte Clube Pinheiros of the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) on , 2024, marking his first professional stint in the country since 2011. The move was motivated by Neto's desire to reconnect with Brazilian basketball and secure regular playing time following a period of limited opportunities abroad. In late November 2024, Neto transitioned back to Europe, joining of the on November 24 for the remainder of the 2024–25 season to bolster the team's rotation amid injuries. However, his tenure was short-lived due to recurring injuries that restricted him to minimal minutes, leading to a mutual termination of the contract on January 2, 2025. Seeking greater consistency after the setback, Neto signed a one-year deal with San Pablo Burgos of the Spanish on July 3, 2025, ahead of the 2025–26 season. As of November 2025, he remains with the club, which had recently returned to the top tier of Spanish basketball, allowing him to leverage his experience in a more prominent role. This series of moves reflects Neto's ongoing pursuit of steady playing opportunities to maintain his competitive edge at age 33.

International career

Brazilian national team debut and early tournaments

Raul Neto's international career began with Brazil's youth national teams, where he quickly established himself as a promising . In 2009, at the age of 17, he represented at the for Men, appearing in all six games and averaging 10.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. This tournament marked his debut on the international stage, showcasing his playmaking ability early in his development. The following year, Neto led Brazil's U18 team to a at the 2010 FIBA Americas U18 Championship, where he averaged 15.4 points, 6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists over five games, earning recognition as a key contributor to the team's runners-up finish. In 2011, he competed at the U19 World Championship, playing in eight games and averaging 14.5 points, 3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. Neto transitioned to the senior Brazilian national team in 2010, making his debut as the youngest member of the squad at the World Championship. He appeared in just one game, logging six minutes without scoring, as he adjusted to the higher level of competition alongside established veterans. By 2012, Neto earned a spot on the Olympic roster in , where he played in three games, averaging 3.7 points and 2 assists per contest in a backup role behind primary point guards. This exposure allowed him to begin building on-court chemistry with stars like , a fellow guard who had been a mainstay on the team since earlier cycles, fostering a complementary dynamic in 's backcourt during preparatory and qualifying events. In the 2013 FIBA Americas Championship, Neto solidified his position as a reliable backup for , which finished third overall. Limited to three appearances due to depth at the position, he contributed 3 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1 assist per game, focusing on facilitating plays and providing energy off the bench in a tournament that served as a qualifier for the 2014 FIBA World Cup. His role emphasized defensive hustle and quick transitions, helping the team maintain competitiveness against regional rivals while he continued to learn from teammates like Barbosa.

FIBA World Cup and Olympic participations

At the 2014 Basketball World Cup in , Neto appeared in all seven games for , averaging 7.6 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game as the team finished 10th overall. Raul Neto earned a starting role as the point guard for at the 2019 Basketball World Cup in , where he provided steady leadership and playmaking for the team. began the tournament with a strong 102-94 victory over in Group F, followed by a dramatic 79-78 upset win against , highlighted by Neto's contributions in orchestrating the offense during the tense finish. Despite these early successes, lost to (80-76) in the group stage and then fell to the (89-73) and the (83-71) in the second round, resulting in an early exit without advancing to the quarterfinals. Neto's experience as an NBA player helped stabilize the backcourt, though the team struggled with consistency against higher-seeded opponents. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021), Neto was a key contributor for , averaging approximately 8 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists per game across four matches as the team achieved a respectable quarterfinal finish—their best Olympic result since 1960. opened with a 75-68 win over , where Neto scored 11 points, and followed with victories against the (77-76) and an upset over host (77-70), showcasing Neto's ability to facilitate in high-pressure games. The team advanced to the quarterfinals but was eliminated by (73-82), with Neto providing veteran poise in the loss. His scoring and assist numbers underscored his role as a reliable guard in 's competitive run. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Neto played in all five games, averaging 4.8 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per as Brazil finished ninth. Neto returned as a veteran leader for Brazil at the in the , , and , but his tournament was cut short by after just one . In the opener against , a 100-59 , Neto tallied 8 points, 2 rebounds, and 4 assists in 15 minutes before suffering a ruptured in his right knee during the third quarter, ruling him out for the remainder of the event. Without Neto, Brazil secured a 69-65 upset over but lost to (84-104) in the second round, leading to another early elimination. His brief appearance highlighted his importance to the team's backcourt depth and leadership. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Neto appeared in two games, averaging 4.0 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game as went 1-2 in the group stage and did not advance.

Key achievements with

Raul Neto secured a silver medal with 's under-18 national team at the 2010 FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship, where he emerged as a standout performer leading the squad to the final. With the senior national team, Neto has demonstrated remarkable longevity, earning 32 caps across major FIBA tournaments by 2024, including three Olympic appearances (2012 in , 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, and 2024 in ) and two FIBA Basketball World Cups (2014 in and 2023 in the Philippines). His consistent presence has solidified his status as a veteran leader, particularly after a brief hiatus, as he returned for the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics to provide stability in the backcourt. Neto's influence extends beyond statistics, serving as a mentor to emerging talents on the Brazilian roster; he has emphasized using his NBA career to inspire younger players, demonstrating that reaching professional heights is achievable through hard work and national team commitment. This role has helped foster a culture of resilience and ambition within the team, especially during rebuilding phases post-2016 Olympics.

Playing style and career highlights

Playing style

Raul Neto embodies the archetype of a quick, pass-first in the NBA, leveraging his speed and ball-handling to orchestrate offenses while providing reliable perimeter . Standing at 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m), he has maintained a career three-point shooting percentage of 35.7% over 435 regular-season games, allowing him to stretch defenses effectively from beyond the arc. His compact and rapid change-of-direction moves enable him to navigate tight spaces, making him a nifty handler who excels at pushing the pace in transition. Neto's primary strengths lie in his court vision and playmaking instincts, particularly in pick-and-roll scenarios where he demonstrates a keen ability to locate open teammates for drive-and-dish opportunities. On defense, his peskiness stands out; despite his undersized frame, he uses quick hands and relentless energy to disrupt ball-handlers, averaging 0.7 steals per game in his career while harassing opponents through screens. In transition, Neto's burst speed allows him to lead fast breaks efficiently, often converting into assists or quick scores. However, Neto's size presents notable weaknesses, limiting his rebounding impact (career 1.5 rebounds per game) and effectiveness against taller, more physical guards on the perimeter. He has occasionally struggled with turnovers, stemming from a tendency to over-dribble in search of highlight plays, which has led to lapses under pressure. Throughout his , Neto has evolved from a more scoring-focused guard during his youth and early professional stints in and —where he averaged over 15 points per game in leagues like the NBB—to a facilitator-oriented role in the NBA, prioritizing team play to complement star-heavy rosters. This adaptation has been evident in his national team contributions for , where he continues to emphasize assists and transition facilitation.

Awards and honors

Raul Neto has earned several international honors representing in FIBA competitions. In 2010, he contributed to a finish at the FIBA Americas U18 Championship, where he averaged 15.4 points per game as a key player for the team. At the senior level, Neto helped secure a bronze medal at the 2014 FIBA South American Championship in , participating in all five games and providing steady backcourt play. His consistent selection for Brazil's national team across FIBA tournaments includes the 2013 FIBA Americas Championship. He also participated in the . In club basketball, Neto was recognized early in his career with the NBB Revelation Player award in 2010, honoring his breakout rookie season with , and earned a spot in the 2011 NBB All-Star Game. No major individual awards were recorded during his NBA tenure with the , , , or , though he received one vote for NBA of the Year in the 2015-16 season.

Career statistics

NBA regular season

Raul Neto entered the NBA with the in the 2015–16 season, appearing in 81 games as a and averaging 5.9 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.5 rebounds per game while shooting 43.1% from the field and 39.5% from three-point range. His role diminished in 2016–17 to 40 games with 2.5 points and 0.9 assists per game, but he rebounded in 2017–18, starting more consistently for the with 4.5 points and 1.8 assists in 41 games, marking a peak in his early efficiency at 45.7% shooting. By 2018–19, Neto contributed 5.3 points and a career-high 2.5 assists in 37 games with , showcasing improved playmaking. After signing with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2019–20, Neto played 54 games, averaging 5.1 points and 1.8 assists with solid 38.6% three-point shooting. He joined the Washington Wizards for the 2020–21 season, where he had a breakout year in 64 games, posting 8.7 points, 2.3 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game on 46.8% field goal efficiency, reflecting a surge in scoring and rebounding. Neto's assists peaked in 2021–22 with the Wizards, averaging 3.1 per game across 70 contests and 7.5 points, though his three-point shooting dipped to 29.2%. In his final NBA season with the in 2022–23, Neto's minutes and production declined to 3.3 points and 1.6 assists in 48 games, with improved 51.8% shooting but reduced overall impact. Over his eight-year career spanning 435 regular-season games, Neto averaged 5.7 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 rebounds per game, with shooting splits of 46.2% from the field, 35.7% from three, and 82.4% from the free-throw line. Advanced metrics highlight his solid but unspectacular contribution, with a career (PER) of 12.3 and 9.1 total , including a WS/48 of .056.
SeasonTeamGPMPGPPGAPGRPGFG%3P%FT%
2015–168118.55.92.11.543.139.574.3
2016–17408.72.50.90.845.132.388.9
2017–184112.14.51.81.245.740.474.3
2018–193712.85.32.51.746.033.384.8
2019–205412.45.11.81.145.538.683.0
2020–216421.98.72.32.446.839.088.2
2021–227019.67.53.11.946.329.276.9
2022–234810.53.31.61.051.828.691.2
Career43516.05.72.11.446.235.782.4
Neto's career trended toward better facilitation, with assists rising from 0.9 in 2016–17 to a high of 3.1 in 2021–22, before a drop-off in his final season amid reduced playing time. His PER fluctuated between 10.7 and 13.0 across seasons, averaging around 12.0 in peak years like 2020–21.

Neto's NBA playoff career spans five appearances, totaling 29 games in which he averaged 3.3 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game while shooting 35.3% from the field. Primarily serving as a reserve guard, he contributed in limited minutes during his early postseason runs with the from 2017 to 2020, often providing backcourt depth behind starters like and Mike Conley. In the 2017 Western Conference First Round against the , Neto appeared in five of the seven games for the , who advanced after a 4-3 series victory, averaging 2.4 points, 0.8 assists, and 6.8 minutes per game off the bench. His role remained marginal in subsequent playoff series, including the 2018 first round loss to the (six games, 2.5 PPG), the 2019 first round defeat to the (five games, 1.4 PPG), and the 2020 Western Conference first round exit against the (seven games, 2.3 PPG). A shift to a more prominent role occurred in 2021 with the Washington Wizards during their Eastern Conference First Round matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, where injuries elevated Neto to the starting lineup for three of five games in a 1-4 series loss. He averaged 8.0 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assist in 22.4 minutes per game, including a notable 13-point performance in Game 1 on 5-of-9 shooting that helped the Wizards secure a 118-125 upset win. This series marked Neto's most significant playoff impact, showcasing his ability to facilitate and score in high-pressure situations as a secondary ball-handler alongside Russell Westbrook.

International leagues and national team

Neto began his professional career in Brazil's (NBB) league, playing for from 2009 to 2011, where he established himself as a promising . In the 2010–11 season, he averaged 12.6 points and 2.2 assists per game off the bench for Minas. He returned to the NBB in 2024 with Esporte Clube Pinheiros, averaging 16.8 points and 3.2 assists in 5 games before departing for . In Spain's Liga ACB, Neto competed across multiple teams, maintaining consistent scoring output as a reserve guard. His career averages in the ACB stand at approximately 7.8 points, 2.9 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game over 135 appearances. Key seasonal performances include:
SeasonTeamGPMPGPPGAPGRPG
2011–12Lagun Aro GBC3417.25.72.01.8
2012–13Lagun Aro GBC3424.58.52.92.4
2013–14Gipuzkoa Basket2727.59.83.32.9
2014–15UCAM Murcia3422.48.93.92.1
2024–25FC Barcelona23.52.50.51.0
2025–26San Pablo Burgos614.79.02.51.5
These figures highlight his role as a reliable , with peak scoring of 9.8 points per game in 2013–14. Neto's exposure was limited, primarily during a brief stint with in 2024–25, where he appeared in two games, averaging 2.5 points, 1.0 rebound, and 0.5 assists in 3.5 minutes per game. His shooting efficiency was notable, going 1-for-1 from three-point range. Overall, his totals amount to 5 points and a performance index rating of 4.0 per game across minimal playing time. With the Brazilian national team, Neto has participated in major FIBA events since 2010, contributing as a steady backcourt option with career averages of 5.0 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists over 28 games. His performances in Olympic and World Cup tournaments include:
TournamentYearGPPPGRPGAPG
201233.71.02.0
201654.81.42.6
201477.62.12.3
201989.32.13.1
202318.02.04.0
202424.01.52.5
South American Championship2014510.22.42.2
Notable highs include 10.2 at the 2014 South American Championship, underscoring his scoring capability in regional play. Total FIBA contributions: 141 points, 39 rebounds, and 53 assists. Across these leagues and international play, Neto's statistics demonstrate scoring consistency in the 5–10 range, with elevated assist numbers (2–4 per game) reflecting his duties, though minutes varied due to bench roles. This aligns with his efficient, distribution-focused style outside the NBA.

Personal life

Neto was born to Raul Togni Filho, a former player who served as his first coach, and Claudia Rodrigues Leal Togni. He has two brothers, with one residing in and the other in the United States. Neto holds an . In August 2021, Neto married Janae Togni Neto in a small ceremony in attended by 15 guests. They co-parent Janae's son , born in 2017 from a previous relationship.

References

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