The Brooklyn Nets are set to replace Steve Nash with Ime Udoka, the Boston Celtics head coach who is currently suspended.
Udoka was suspended by the Celtics for the entire 2022/23 NBA season for violating team policies regarding an improper intimate relationship with a female staff member on the team. The relationship was originally believed to be consensual, but the woman later accused Udoka of making unwanted comments towards her.
Udoka later apologised after his suspension was revealed., with assistant coach Joe Mazzulla taking his place as interim head coach. Udoka had impressed as a rookie as he led the Celtics to the NBA Finals where they lost in six games to the Golden State Warriors.
The 45-year-old remains under contract with the Celtics, so the team would have to give its permission for him to interview with another organisation, but Boston is willing to let him leave to accept another job, as reported by The Athletic's Shams Charania.
Udoka guided Boston to a 51-31 record during his first season as a head coach, and he finished fourth in Coach of the Year voting.He previously spent one season as an assistant with the Nets in 2020/21 under Nash following stints with the San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers.
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported Udoka is 'likely' to be the hire and it is set to be finalised in the next 24-48 hours.
The move comes after the Nets decided to fire Nash earlier today. The decision was reportedly mutual between the Nets organisation and two-time MVP after he led the team to a 2-5 record to open the season. Expectations were high heading into the 2022/23 NBA season given Brooklyn's roster, which includes superstars like Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons.
In a statement, Nash said: “A very heartfelt thanks to Joe and Clara Tsai along with Sean Marks for giving me the opportunity to coach the Brooklyn Nets. It was an amazing experience with many challenges that I’m incredibly grateful for.
“It was a pleasure to work with the players, performance team and front office everyday. I’m especially grateful to my coaching staff and video room who are a talented group with so much character and professionalism.
“Lastly, thanks to Brooklyn and the passionate fans who support this team. Family first and my family has found a home here and LOVES being a part of this beautiful community. I wish the Nets all the success in the world and the Nash’s will be rooting for our team as they turn this season around.”
The Nets face the 3-4 Chicago Bulls in their next match on Tuesday night.
