Before, emotions begin to get involved the facts will be displayed in order for one to make a proper assessment of the situation. Boston Celtics HC Ime Udoka was given a full-year suspension for the 2022-23 season, reported Tim Bontemps for ESPN. While many would agree to indulge in sexual intercourse is not a crime. However, within the confines of business, there are policies and regulations each individual must follow. Due to the policies being broken, the swift hand of consequences was dealt to Udoka.
“I’m worried about the situation and how it affects everyone in the Celtics’ organization,” expressed Boston Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck during a news conference at the team’s practice facility on Friday morning. “I hope this marks the start of a fresh chapter, an opportunity to move forward with some level of resolution.”
Both Grousbeck and Celtics president of operations Brad Stevens said very little on the matter while the situation is still unraveling itself. While the violations Udoka broke have yet to be disclosed. It’s understood he had an intimate relationship with a female member of the franchise’s staff.
How did the Boston Celtics Find Out?
Once word was brought to Grousbeck and the organization, over the past couple of weeks, a law firm was hired for the sole purpose of investigating Udoka. Once this concluded, the organization chose to suspend Udoka and once the suspension expired, sources say he will be fined “handsomely”.
“I hope this marks a fresh start, an opportunity to move forward with some issues resolved.”
At the moment, Stevens has replaced Udoka with Joe Mazzulla. The 34-year-old will be stepping in on an interim basis. Mazzulla is one of the youngest coaches in the NBA. In fact, his only HC experience is with a Division II college, Fairmount State, before being hired by Stevens in 2019.
Why is This Situation Such a Big Deal?
The entire situation has grown important, many believe, due to its messiness. It was public knowledge that Udoka was engaged to cinema star Nia Long throughout the affair. In the same breath, while Udoka was stepping out on Long, the assistant was married. It appears there’s a classic case of infidelity being tossed around in the Celtics organization.
However, the reality is many involved were hurt and are still grieving through the scandal. In fact, the award-winning actress released a statement via email, according to ClutchPoints
“The overwhelming love and support from my family, friends, and the community during this challenging time holds immense significance for me,” expressed Long. “I kindly request privacy as I navigate through these recent events. My utmost priority is being a mother and providing for my children.”
