Celtics Coach Ime Udoka–Investigation Found He Used Crude Language In Dialogue w/ Female Subordinate Prior To Start Of Improper Relationship

Celtics Coach Ime Udoka–Investigation Found He Used Crude Language In Dialogue w/ Female Subordinate Prior To Start Of Improper Relationship

The independent law firm investigation into Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka, 45, misconduct found that he used crude language in his dialogue with a female subordinate prior to the start of their improper workplace relationship.

In the investigative finding, Ime Udoka’s verbiage was deemed especially concerning coming from a workplace superior. This played a major part in the decision to suspend the coach for one year. According to reports, the power dynamic associated with a superior’s improper relationship with a staff member was the primary finding and policy violation cited in the law firm’s report.

Ime Udoka

At a news conference last week, Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck said the suspension–which extends through June 30, 2023–was a result of multiple violations of team policies. According to sources, the Boston Celtics won’t stand in Ime Udoka’s way should he be given the chance to become a coaching candidate elsewhere. Reportedly, there are teams that have tried to gather an understanding of the full explanation for Udoka’s suspension in preparation for possibly evaluating him for coaching employment in the future.

Grousbeck also revealed that Udoka would be receiving a pay cut in his salary during the suspension.

Ime Udoka had a successful first season leading the Celtics to an Eastern Conference championship and NBA Finals where Boston lost in six games to the Golden State Warriors.

As previously reported, Udoka, who has been with Nia Long for 12 years and engaged for at least seven of those, was suspended on Thursday (September 22) as a result of the revelation that he had an intimate and consensual relationship with a female staffer. The relationship/illegal affair breached the the policies of the organization. Despite the fact that word of Udoka‘s disciplinary action spread over social media all day, the Celtics didn’t make their official announcement until after 9 p.m. EST.

Nia Long, Ime Udoka & Their Son

According to an official statement from the organization,

“The team has suspended Head Coach Ime Udoka for the 2022-23 season for violations of team policies. A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date. The suspension takes effect immediately.”

The 45-year-old publicly expressed regret to the organization and his family in a statement following his suspension for putting them in a “difficult situation.” He said,

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

Nia Long also released a statement on the matter through her representative Shannon Barr. She said,

“The outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the community during this difficult time means so much to me. I ask that my privacy be respected as I process the recent events. Above all, I am a mother and will continue to focus on my children.”

Nia Long, Ime Udoka

Last week, the ‘Soul Food’ actress was spotted ringless for the first time since news of her fiance Ime Udoka’s cheating scandal exploded across the internet. With her long black tresses flowing, Nia Long exited Whole Foods wearing a black halter top and ripped jeans. She was with her son Kez, who she shares with Ime Udoka.

As she walked to her car, paparazzi quizzed the 51-year-old on the scandal and asked her how she was holding up. Nia Long responded, 

“I don’t have any comment right now. I’m sorry.”

Still, the paparazzi continued by asking if she and Ime Udoka were working out their issues. Nia Long didn’t directly answer the burning question but she did let out an exasperated laugh before getting into her car. While the “laugh” did not confirm if she plans on taking Ime Udoka back or not, her missing engagement ring may be a tell-tale sign. The Single Moms Club actress isn’t offering more information at this time.

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below! 

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