I was wrong about Joe Mazzulla

Prior to the 2023-24 NBA season, in an article, I asked the question, "Is Joe Mazzulla an acceptable replacement for for Ime Udoka" (as Celtics coach)? My answer at the time was an emphatic "NO". That has changed.

As a college student, Mazzulla was arrested and charged with domestic battery for grabbing a woman by the neck in a bar room. With Udoka being banished from the Celtics due to allegations of misconduct, my feeling at the time was that "The Green" did not need a repeat with Joe at the helm.

What did counter my negative thoughts on Mazzulla was the fact that Brad Stevens, well known for hiring - and promoting - guys with character - fully backed Joe for the position of head coach. The positive result is history - with Mazzulla listed as one of the three finalists for NBA Coach of the Year.

Frankly, I love this guy. He turned his life around from his wayward college days and is not only a superior pro basketball coach - he is a fine "Manager of Men", similar to a former Celtics coach by the name of Arnold "Red" Auerbach. And he is a bit of a wiseguy - a la Gregg Popovich - which is quite refreshing to me, seeing that I am of the same ilk.

Joe Mazzulla has earned the COY Award, even though he has voiced dislike for the honor. Despite his rascal-like behavior during interviews, his handling of the players under his command is quite similar to that of the guy for which the COY trophy is named, namely "Red - the- Rascal" Auerbach.

The Boston Celtics have done a wonderful job this season, and that would not have happened without Mazzulla at the helm. I was wrong about him, and I am hoping for "The Green" to continue on their "Cinderella" season.

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