The record champion, with whom Udoka had played for the title in the final against the Golden State Warriors at the end of his first season as head coach, cited a violation of internal rules as the reason. A decision on the future of the 45-year-old will be made at a later date, the Celtics said.
Several American media such as ESPN, “The Athletic” and the “Washington Post” reported that Udoka had an “inappropriate intimate relationship” with an employee of the club. “I want to apologize to our players, fans, the whole Celtics organization and my family for disappointing them. I’m sorry that I put the team in a difficult situation and I accept the decision,” the media quoted a reaction of Udoka.
It was initially unclear who would take over from Udoka for the duration of the suspension. His assistant Joe Mazzulla is the favorite. (sda/dpa)
