Driving for Brooks Associates Racing, Niemela posted a best lap of 2min 28.915secs to take the provisional pole for the SunRichGourmet.com 1000.
Another rookie, Jonathan Summerton, was second quickest in the #36 Newman Wachs Racing entry. He is currently second in the overall championship standings.
Dane Cameron made it three rookies in top three spots with the #19 Genoa Racing entry.
Simona de Silvestro was fourth on the provisional grid, with Dutchman Junior Strous completing the top five.
Canadians Kevin Lacroix and James Hinchcliffe finished respectively 10th and 13th.
Another rookie, Jonathan Summerton, was second quickest in the #36 Newman Wachs Racing entry. He is currently second in the overall championship standings.
Dane Cameron made it three rookies in top three spots with the #19 Genoa Racing entry.
Simona de Silvestro was fourth on the provisional grid, with Dutchman Junior Strous completing the top five.
Canadians Kevin Lacroix and James Hinchcliffe finished respectively 10th and 13th.