An independent law firm probe commissioned by the Boston Celtics into suspended head coach Ime Udoka found that he used crude language in his dialogue with a female subordinate before the start of an improper workplace relationship with the woman.
According to sources, that behavior played a significant role in Udoka's one-year suspension and has led to a difficult path back to the Celtics' bench.
It was found that Udoka's part was particularly concerning coming from a workplace superior.
In a press conference announcing Udoka's one-year suspension, Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck said that there were multiple violations of team policies and that Udoka would be getting a reduced salary.
If Udoka presented himself, the Celtics wouldn't prevent him from pursuing other coaching opportunities. Several teams have tried to gather a preliminary understanding of the full explanation for Udoka's suspension in order to evaluate him for future coaching employment.
As a result of the investigation, no other members of the organization were disciplined.
The head coach for the upcoming season has been named. He was an assistant coach in Boston under Brad Stevens and Udoka last season.
After leading the Celtics to a 51-31 record and a berth in the NBA Finals, the team lost in six games to the Warriors.
He worked with the San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets. He played for the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, Portland Trail Blazers, and the San Antonio Spurs.