Following an improper relationship with a staff member, Celtics Coach Ime Udoka is “Likely” to be suspended for the 2022–23 season.
Ime Udoka, the coach of the Boston Celtics, is reportedly facing a significant suspension, “likely” for the entire 2022–23 season, as a result of having a “improper intimate and consensual relationship with a female member of the team staff.”
The specifics of Udoka’s violation of the organizational conduct rules were revealed by The Athletic.
Udoka has been dating actress Nia Long since 2010, and the two have a son together. They are currently engaged.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN Udoka, 45, will “likely” miss the entire 2022–23 season, it was tweeted on Thursday.
Woj earlier stated on air that “the length of that suspension is expected to be determined as soon as Thursday.” “Sources told ESPN that Boston has discussed the possibility that Udoka might miss the entire 2022–23 season in some internal discussions.
“Sources say Udoka’s job is not in jeopardy, but the Celtics are bracing for a significant suspension and the possibility that the coach who led them to the NBA Finals in his first season possibly could miss the entirety of this coming year.”
According to sources cited by Woj in a story, “Celtics assistant Joe Mazzulla would probably be in serious consideration for an interim role.”
After serving as an assistant with the Spurs, 76ers, and Nets, Udoka was hired in June 2021.
He secured the group’s first NBA Finals appearance since 2010 in May of this year. Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors defeated the Boston Celtics in six games.
Following an investigation into allegations of workplace misconduct against him and the team, Suns owner Robert Sarver, who was under fire, announced on Wednesday that he was selling both the Suns and the Mercury of the WNBA.
