Ime Udoka is on the verge of winning the American franchise their first NBA title in 12 years.Former Nigerian senior men’s national basketball team star, Ime Udoka, made history on Monday (WAT), May 30, 2022, after qualifying Boston Celtics for their first NBA finals in 12 years in just his first season as head coach of the team.
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Boston Celtics beat Miami Heat 100-96 points in their game-seven encounter to book a place in the final showpiece after failing in their last five playoffs. Ime Udoka and his men will now confront the Golden State Warriors in the finals with the first game scheduled to hold on Friday, June 3, 2022 (WAT) at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Udoka, 44, who was appointed to lead the franchise on June 28, 2021, as their fifth coach of African origin, praised his boys for being resilient throughout the season.
“This is a typical Celtics win. We fought through a lot of adversity this year. We’re a resilient group and tonight seemed to signify our season. We can’t ever seem to shut the door and have to grind it out,”
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the former D’Tigers star said. Following the win, Udoka and his lads have set their sights on the finals as the Nigerian noted that winning the Eastern Conference is not enough.
“We’re quick to flip the page and say, ‘we’ve got four more’…We don’t hang or celebrate Eastern Conference championships in the Celtics organization … We’re here now trying to finish the deal.” Ime Udoka
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The former Portland Trail Blazers star also expressed confidence going into the finals which could see him make history with a title win in his first season.
“So, very confident going in…I know it’s another tough challenge. I think Miami will help prep us for some of the off-ball actions in the shooters that they had. But we know the Warriors are a high-level team, executing team that has a ton of great shooters, great players overall, guys I know well. We’re ready for the challenge.” UdokaSources: NBS Sports Complete Sports Featured Image Source: The Guardian Nigeria News
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