The Boston Celtics have suspended coach Ime Udoka for a season for violating the organization’s rules by having an intimate relationship with a member of staff.
The 47-year-old, who is in his second season with the Celtics after leading Massachusetts to its first NBA Finals in 12 years, was quick to apologize to the team and his family.
“I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for disappointing them. I regret putting the team in this difficult situation, but I accept the team’s decision “Udoka stated in a message posted on Malika Andrews’ Twitter account (ESPN)
“I will make no further comments out of respect for everyone involved.”
The Athletic has learned more about Udoka’s 12-year relationship with famed actress Nia Long and his Celtics colleague.
According to journalist Shams Charania, the Celtics’ staff first became aware of Udoka’s relationship with the staff member in July.
The couple led team officials to believe the relationship was mutual, but sources told The Athletic that the woman recently accused Udoka of making unwanted comments to her, prompting the team to launch a series of internal interviews.
According to Charania, the Celtics’ decision and announcement to suspend Udoka for a year came after a closed-door meeting Thursday with team owners and president Brad Stevens that lasted several hours.
Stevens and members of the Celtics front office also met with players at the team’s facility.
