Boston Celtics name Ime Udoka as their new head coach / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AFP - Scanpix Credit AFP - Scanpix

The seven-year NBA veteran Ime Udoka has been officially welcomed as the newest head coach of the Boston Celtics.

Points this season

46%112,7Points made:112,7Accuracy:46,3%Place in standings:15Record max:145Record min:75Best scorer:Jayson TatumTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

"I would like to welcome Ime, Nia, Kez, and Massai to the Boston Celtics. Among the many outstanding qualities that Ime brings to the table are his character, humility, and competitiveness. He has a relentless work ethic and a vast array of experiences as a player and coach," said Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens. "He's a leader that is warm and demanding, and we are so excited that he has chosen to join us in pursuit of Banner 18."

Udoka, 43, will be the 18th head coach in the organization's 75-year history. Before coming to Boston, the Nigerian-American spent the last nine years as an assistant coach of the San Antonio Spurs (2012-13 to 2018-19), Philadelphia (2019-20), and Brooklyn (2020-21). With the help of Udoka, these teams made the playoffs in all nine seasons. He also helped the Spurs capture an NBA championship in 2014.

Along with being an NBA assistant coach, Udoka also served the same role under Gregg Popovich for the USA Basketball Men's National Team in 2018.

"It's an honor to be a part of the historic Celtics franchise. Coaching this talented roster and working alongside Brad makes it an ideal situation," said Udoka. "I'd like to thank Wyc, Steve, and Brad for entrusting me with this opportunity. I look forward to getting started right away."

Before becoming a coach, Udoka spent 12 years playing professional basketball. He played seven seasons in the NBA (from 2003-04 to 2010-11). Udoka averaged 5.2 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1 assist, and 18.1 minutes in 316 career games with San Antonio, Portland, Sacramento, New York, and the Los Angeles Lakers.

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