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USA Today via Reuters
Dec 8, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka calls out in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
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USA Today via Reuters
Dec 8, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka calls out in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
The Boston Celtics have achieved a franchise record for consecutive home wins despite a recent setback in Milwaukee. Enduring a challenging stretch, with the fifth game in a grueling seven-day period, the Celtics are determined to bounce back. Now, hosting the Houston Rockets, they will aim to retain their clean home record. Rockets arrive in hopes of stringing together another winning run.
However, their matchup takes on an extra layer of intrigue with new leaders orchestrating both franchises this season, adding an element of unpredictability to the game.
Celtics fans are not exactly happy about Udoka’s return
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The crowd buzzed with mixed emotions as the Celtics’ announcer introduced Ime Udoka as the head coach of the Houston Rockets for the very first time. Udoka, earlier, was at the helm of the Celtics. However, his journey was cut short in September’22. Soon, the Houston Rockets offered a contract to the coach for its young core.
Ime Udoka is introduced as the Rockets coach at the Garden for the first time to a mixed response. pic.twitter.com/faKMQSTEN5
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) January 14, 2024
In his time with the Celtics in 2021-22, Udoka led the Celtics to the NBA Finals. However, his journey with the Celtics was cut short due to an improper work relationship, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup.
Read More – Ime Udoka Reveals his Feelings on Boston Return Ahead of Celtics-Rockets Game
Looking back on his journey with Boston, Udoka expressed regret for letting down both the players and the organization, especially considering their proximity to a championship win. Despite the setback, he claims to actively engage in conversations with some of the members, paving a path forward and emphasizing the importance of moving on.
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Ime Udoka wants to get on the unfinished business in Boston
In Boston’s home arena, Udoka coached his final game for the Celtics. It was a Game 6 of the 2022 NBA Finals, where Boston succumbed to the Golden State Warriors. While it created a magical journey for the Dubsnation, it was equally opposite for the men in green.
Reflecting on that pivotal season, Udoka was enquired about his perspective. Looking at the larger picture, he asserted a “Job not finished” mindset. Even though he emphasized the bonds he forged in the TD Garden, he expressed a desire to have another opportunity to chase a championship; this time with a group he believed he could grow with.
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Udoka orchestrated a remarkable turnaround during his lone season with the Celtics. The Celtics began the 2021-22 campaign with a less than decent 23-24 record through late January. However, they concluded the season behind a stunning 28-7 run. This gave the Celtics momentum coming into the playoffs, propelling them past start-studded Brooklyn Nets, Bucks, and the Miami Heat. It was their first time entering the NBA finals since 2010.