"Nobody died ... It's just something unfortunate has happened to him" - Reigning Defensive Player of the Year winner reacts to Boston Celtics suspending Ime Udoka
Boston Celtics Coach Ime Udoka has been suspended for reported violating the organization's policy. Despite the accusations about Udoka's conduct, Celtics guard and Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart still appreciates everything the coach has done for the team.
"Nobody died. I still love Ime as a person and as a coach, Smart said. "He led us to the Finals. It's just something unfortunate has happened to him."
"Nobody died. I still love Ime as a person and as a coach. He led us to the Finals. It's just something unfortunate has happened to him."
- Marcus Smart
(Via @GwashburnGlobe ) https://t.co/gEEgPU9BRt
Why did Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka get suspended?
Ime Udoka, the now-suspended Boston Celtics coach, has been given severe consequences for his workplace misconduct. Reportedly, he has been having a consensual relationship and affair with a female employee.
Udoka has been with actress Nia Long since 2010. The two have a child together.
Udoka will be suspended for the entirety of the 2022–23 season.
The Celtics were 51-31 in Udoka's first season as coach. They became Eastern Conference champions by defeating the Miami Heat in seven games. Udoka had been an assistant to Steve Nash, Brett Brown and Greg Popovich.
New interim coach Joe Mazzulla
The Celtics will now have to adjust to new interim coach Joe Mazzulla. They don't want to lose the momentum they built last season. They reached the Finals, losing to the Golden State Warriors in six games. Unless Boston finds a way to maintain its chemistry, the team might lose their status as a contender.
However, Mazzulla isn't a new face to the squad. He was an assistant coach for the team last year. Before that, he was an assistant for Brad Stevens for two seasons. The familiar face could help create continuity. If Mazzulla can recreate Ime Udoka's coaching style, the Celtics may be in good hands.
This is an opportunity for Mazzulla to prove his worth as an NBA coach.