Boston Celtics suspend Ime Udoka for a year for violating team policies after reports of an affair

Celtics coach Ime Udoka has released a statement after he was banned from the team for the entire 2022-23 NBA season. According to reports, he had an intimate relationship with a female member of the team staff.

“I would like to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization and my family for disappointing,” Udoka said in a statement.

“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 not comment further.’

A statement from the Celtics confirmed reports that the suspension would last for the entire NBA calendar.

‘The Boston Celtics announced today that the team has suspended Head Coach Ime Udoka for the 2022-23 season for violation of team policy. A decision about his future with the Celtics after this season will be made at a later date. The suspension takes effect immediately.’

Last night, reports emerged that Udoka would face a “significant suspension” for an undisclosed violation of team policies. Afterwards, rumors surfaced that it had to do with a relationship with a Celtics employee.

Udoka has been engaged for years to actress Nia Long, who gave birth to the couple’s son in 2011. However, Long and Udoka were “believed to have been separated prior to the current release,” the spokesperson said. Brandon Robinson of Bally Sports.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, who was the first to report the impending suspension, writes that Udoka’s job is not in danger. However, the language in the Celtics statement suggests that removal from the track is still a possibility.

This is a story in development. More to follow.