NBA Rumors: Ime Udoka Could Be Done With Celtics

The news of the scandal hit hard late last night and early this morning: Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka—who led the team to the NBA Finals last season—has been involved in a relationship with a Celtics staffer, violating team rules. 

According to Adam Himmelsbach of the Boston Globe, the Celtics are expected to hand down a one-year punishment for Udoka, taking him out for the entire season. 

But as a result of the controversy, Udoka has considered stepping down, according to a report by Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated. 

Ime Udoka has considered the possibility of resigning, sources told @SInow. Internally, coaches and staff members are bracing for the likelihood that Udoka will be suspended for one year for having a relationship with a female staffer.

— Chris Mannix (@SIChrisMannix) September 22, 2022

A formal announcement on the suspension is expected sometime on Thursday. 

To further add fuel to the fire, former NBA player and now ESPN analyst Richard Jefferson is suggesting the Udoka affair with the staffer was somewhat less than consensual.

Ask yourself if it’s consensual then why the suspension and the length!!! 🤔

— Richard Jefferson (@Rjeff24) September 22, 2022

The Celtics will be naming assistant Joe Mazzulla as the Celtics’ head coach for the 2022-23 season, Himmeslbach added. 

Udoka was scheduled to meet with the media on Monday for the Celtics' Media Day, and the official opening of training camp. 

The 45-year-old got his first head coaching job with the Celtics last season, and proceeded to take the team to the NBA Finals. He had built a great chemistry and a great culture with his team, and his loss could be a big blow to the team's hopes of repeating as Eastern Conference champions. 

Photos: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports