Marcus Smart recently reflected on the impactful foundation Ime Udoka laid on the Boston Celtics.
Marcus Smart recently discussed Ime Udoka and the Boston Celtics in an interview with Marc J. Spears of Andscape.
Udoka left a lasting impression on the Celtics during their incredible season comeback, leading Boston to the Finals from a poor start and missing out on banner 18. Numerous members of Boston’s core, both current and former, have consistently expressed their gratitude for the one-year coach.
Speaking of Udoka’s sudden departure, Smart remarked, “It definitely put a dent in us.” Smart was referring to Udoka’s suspension and termination. “We were on a high wave of making it there [to the Finals] yet coming up short. We anticipate that after a complete [season] under [Udoka], we will be able to truly engage in this activity once more. We just were not given that opportunity. And it’s difficult to resist wanting something like that once you taste it. And then it’s like, “Damn, what happened?” when you can no longer understand it. What might have taken place? What actions could we take?
Smart is aware that it affected how the Celtics’ 2017–18 season transpired.
It certainly made a dent in us. However, the best part of this game is that we get to play as professionals. Regretfully, that did occur. However, we undoubtedly picked up a lot from Ime.
On Saturday night, when the Celtics play the Houston Rockets, their former and much-loved coach will make his way back to Boston.