Celtics Head Coach Ime Udoka Reportedly Won’t Resign After Alleged Relationship with Staff Member
Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka reportedly will not resign from his position while he awaits punishment from the Boston Celtics for having a consensual relationship with a female member of the organization, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes.
Per multiple reports, he is potentially facing a yearlong suspension but sources say his job doesn’t seem to be in jeopardy.
If a suspension is put in place, Celtics assistant coach Joe Mazzulla is likely to become Boston’s interim coach for the season, according to ESPN sources.
While the actual details of the situation are unclear, the Celtics’ handling of the situation seem to be suspicious to some, including NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith.
Udoka, 45, was entering his second season as head coach for the Celtics after leading the team to a 51-31 record and a trip to the NBA Finals, where they lost in six games to the Golden State Warriors.
ln a statement, Udoka wanted to express his remorse today….
“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.”
He’s also in an 11-year relationship with actress Nia Long, who has been very supportive of him in his career. She hasn’t made any statements regarding this situation.