Ime Udoka, the Boston Celtics head coach, was suspended by the NBA on Friday for violating team policies. The 45-year-old will remain suspended for the entire 2022-23 season after allegations of engaging in a consensual intimate relationship with a staff member were found to be true. 

The Boston Celtics have a policy that bars staff members from engaging in intimate relationships among them. When the policy is violated, it is considered a breach of the franchise’s code of conduct. 

Also read: Why Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka may face disciplinary action

Since being suspended, Udoka has reacted to the incident in a statement that was shared by ESPN’s NBA journalist Malika Andrews. 

“I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,” Udoka said, adding, “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.”

Udoka, a Nigerian-American basketball coach and former player, took over the Celtic job in the 2021-2022 season.  Under him, the Celtics reached the 2021 NBA finals for the first time since 2010. Udoka and his lost the final match 103-90 and had to settle as the runners-up. 

Also read: NBA Finals: Ghosts of playoffs still haunt Boston Celtics

Nia Long, Udoka’s partner since 2010, has refused to comment on the issue. She reportedly shared a video on Instagram that spoke about wellness, spirituality, and positivity. The couple has a 10-year-old son named Kez Sunday Udoka. 

To assuage the situation, the Boston Celtics have brought in Joe Mazzulla, a former West Virginia college basketball player, to be the interim coach. ESPN revealed that Mazzulla has two arrests in his name and has no experience in NBA coaching. 

Coming off one of their best seasons in recent history, the situation for Boston Celtics looks bleak at the moment as they are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers in the season opener on October 18.