Celtics Coach Ime Udoka Faces Possible 'Significant Suspension': Report

2022 NBA Finals - Game Six

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Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka is reportedly "facing possible disciplinary action," which includes "a significant suspension" in relation to "an unspecified violation of organizational guidelines," sources with knowledge of the situation confirmed to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski Thursday (September 21) night.

The Celtics are reportedly discussing "a final determination" just days ahead of training camp, Wojnarowski reports.

Udoka was hired as the Celtics' head coach last offseason, replacing Brad Stevens, who was promoted to president of basketball operations following longtime team team president Danny Ainge's retirement.

Boston went 51-31 during the 2021-22 regular season and defeated the Brooklyn Nets, Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat to win the Eastern Conference title before being eliminated by the Golden State Warriors in Game 6 of the NBA Finals.

Udoka had previously worked as an assistant with the Nets prior to the 2021-22 season, as well as the Philadelphia 76ers in 2019-20 and the San Antonio Spurs from 2012-19.

The 45-year-old had also served under his former San Antonio boss Gregg Popovich with the U.S. national team during the 2019 World Cup tournament.

Udoka had previously played seven seasons in the NBA which included stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings and Spurs prior to transitioning to coaching.

Udoka's best season as a player came during the 2006-07 campaign with the Portland Trail Blazers, which included starting 75 games and averaging 8.4 points and 3.7 rebounds.


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