Marcus Smart Opens up About Ime Udoka’s Departure from Boston

In a recent interview with Marc J. Spears of Andscape, Marcus Smart reflected on Ime Udoka and what he meant to the Boston Celtics.

Udoka had a big imprint on the Celtics during their historic turnaround of a season, taking Boston all the way to the Finals after a slow start and coming up short of banner 18. Many of Boston's core, both present and recently departed, have always been vocal about what the one-year coach meant to them.

“It definitely put a dent in us,” said Smart of Udoka's abrupt departure, describing Udoka’s suspension and firing. “We were on a high wave of making it there [to the Finals] yet coming up short. We we’re expecting after a full [season] under [Udoka], we can do this again and we can really get into it. And we just didn’t get that chance. And when you get a taste of something like that, it’s hard not to want it. And then when you don’t get it anymore it’s like, ‘Dang, what happened? What could have happened? What could we do?’

Smart knows it was a factor towards how last season played out for the Celtics.

“It definitely put a dent in us. But the beauty about this game is we’re professionals and we got to go out and play. Unfortunately, it happened. But we definitely learned a lot from Ime.”

The Celtics, yet to face their former, loved coach, will see him return to Boston on Saturday night when the Celtics host the Houston Rockets.

Further Reading

Marcus Smart in Danger of Missing Return to Boston

Here's What Stood Out as Crucial Adjustment Ignites Jayson Tatum, Propels Celtics Past Timberwolves to Remain Unbeaten at Home

Jrue Holiday Responds to Celtics Saying He's Sacrificing Most: 'Not Mad at My Situation'

Oshae Brissett Making Strong Case to Fill Celtics' Search for Big Wing

Driven by Championship Pursuit, Jayson Tatum Unfazed by Sacrifice, Less Fanfare: 'Don't Look for That Praise'

Brad Stevens Shares What Celtics Are Looking to Add and How He Hopes to Do So

Derrick White Opens Up About Journey from Uncertainty He Belonged in the NBA to an All-Star Caliber Guard

Jaylen Brown Quieting Doubters, Validating What He Always Believed: 'Earn Everybody's Trust'

Joe Mazzulla Discusses Identity, Evolution of Celtics' Offense: 'Balance of Pace and Execution'

Jaylen Brown Shares His View of What Defines 'Celtics Basketball'