New Boston Celtics head coach, Ime Udoka, wasted no time sharing his strategy for this season. In his first press conference with the team, he called out his new boss for his low assist numbers.
“Sorry to mention this Brad (Stevens), but 27th in assists last year, we want to have more team basketball there,” Udoka said.
The C’s head coach definitely meant it and re-emphasized it during media day.
“I want to get away from so much iso and 1-on-1 play,” Udoka said.
Udoka mentioned that this was not an attempt to limit Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown. He does not want to take the ball away from them but rather find them easier ways to score the ball without settling for isolation.
It was also very important for Udoka to have his team find a good balance. He believes that a team-oriented style of basketball will allow for the bench to provide some punch for the C’s.
Celtics fans have a lot of reasons to be excited for this season and Ime Udoka might be the biggest. He will be a welcome change of pace for the team and will create a system that allows his star players to thrive without limiting the supporting cast.
(Photo of Ime Udoka by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)