Some Members Of Celtics Knew Of Ime Udoka Relationship Since July

September 23, 2022

Celtics coach Ime Udoka is being suspended for the season because of an inappropriate relationship with a female employee — a relationship that some members of the Celtics organization have known about since July, per Shams Charania of The Athletic.

The decision to suspend Udoka for the entire season came Thursday, after a “closed-door meeting” that included team owners and head of basketball operations Brad Stevens, after which Stevens met with the players, Charania reported.

While specifics of the relationship have yet to be detailed (the Celtics have stayed mum on the matter), it reportedly was consensual. Given that, many have questioned the length of the suspension, as well as the timing — as tips off next week.

Udoka, however, was apologetic in a prepared statement.

“I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,” Udoka said. “I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team’s decision. Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment.”

Assistant Joe Mazzulla will serve as interim head coach in Udoka’s absence. There will also be an available assistant slot, though no word yet on if the Celtics intend to fill it. As we relayed earlier, former Lakers coach Frank Vogel is one name making the rounds as a possibility.

Per Chris Haynes of TNT, Udoka has no intention of resigning.

Udoka arrived in Boston last summer after one season as an assistant under Steve Nash with the Nets. He served as an assistant with the 76ers in 2019-20, and for seven years under Gregg Popovich with the Spurs before that.

Prior to his coaching career, Udoka was a small forward with the Lakers in 2004, then spent time with the Knicks, Trail Blazers, Spurs and Kings from 2006-11. He also played professionally overseas.

According to ESPN Stats & Information, Udoka “became the first rookie coach to win multiple Game 7s in his first postseason,” ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski wrote.