Celtics suspend coach Ime Udoka for 2022-23 season

“A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date,” the team said.

SUSPENSION: Ime Udoka of the Boston Celtics. Pic: Elsa/Getty Images

The Boston Celtics have suspended Ime Udoka for a full year, banning the coach who led them to the NBA Finals last spring for the entire 2022-23 season over what two people with knowledge of the matter said was an improper relationship with a member of the organization.

The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the team did not reveal that detail publicly. In a statement issued Thursday night after a full day of wrangling over the terms of the punishment, the Celtics said Udoka violated team policies and left open the possibility that a longer separation could follow.