According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the NBA found nothing disqualifying in Ime Udoka’s background before he reportedly agreed to a deal with the Houston Rockets. Wojnarowski mentioned that the league office reviewed the independent report commissioned by the Boston Celtics, who had investigated Udoka for an improper relationship with a woman within their organization. Additionally, the Rockets conducted their own inquiries by speaking to individuals who have worked with Udoka in different organizations and received positive endorsements.
The Celtics had previously announced the suspension of Udoka for the 2022-23 NBA season due to multiple violations of team policies. In February, they removed the interim tag from Joe Mazzulla, indicating a permanent change in the coaching staff.
Fans have been left curious about the details surrounding Udoka’s suspension. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that Udoka had an intimate relationship with a female coworker, which team officials became aware of in July. Initially, both parties presented the relationship as consensual. However, the woman later accused Udoka of making unwanted comments, prompting the team to conduct internal interviews.
Wojnarowski later reported that the investigation determined Udoka had used inappropriate language when speaking to a female subordinate and that this had occurred before the improper relationship began. The law firm conducting the inquiry also expressed concerns about the power dynamics involved, given Udoka’s influential position within the organization.
Prior to accepting the Rockets’ offer, Udoka was linked to the Brooklyn Nets after the firing of Steve Nash. However, the Nets distanced themselves from him, with his suspension reportedly being a factor in their decision.
It can be assumed that either the NBA approved of the Rockets’ pursuit of Udoka or did not find it necessary to intervene when his name came up as a candidate. Nevertheless, his suspension is likely to be a topic of discussion during his introductory press conference with the Rockets.
