Nia Long Says the Boston Celtics ‘Were Irresponsible’ in Handling of Ex-Fiancé’s Cheating Scandal
Nia Long is again calling out the Boston Celtics for how they handled her ex-fiancé Ime Udoka’s cheating scandal.
As reported by PEOPLE, while on the red carpet at the premiere of Peacock’s The Best Man: The Final Chapters in Los Angeles on Wednesday evening, the actress, 52, opened up to Entertainment Tonight about her frustrations with how Udoka’s former team shared the news of his affair with a subordinate in the organization.
“It feels like no one thought of me, of my children. There was no protection,” Long said, referring to kids Massai Zhivago Dorsey II, her child with ex-fiancé Massai Z. Dorsey, and Kez Sunday, her son with Udoka, 45.
“I think the Celtics were irresponsible, and it was hurtful,” she added. “It really was, because we were welcomed in as family, and then it’s like, ‘Well, what happened?’ But I’m figuring it out.”
The Boston Celtics did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
In September, just weeks before the start of the NBA season, the Boston Celtics issued a statement announcing Udoka’s immediate suspension from the team. At the time, they said Udoka had violated “team policies,” and noted his future with the team will be evaluated.
Shortly before the Celtics statement went live, ESPN reported that Udoka had a “role in an intimate relationship with a female member of the franchise’s staff.”
Udoka later gave a statement to ESPN’s Malika Andrews on the alleged relationship. “I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,” he said. “I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team’s decision.”
His message concluded, “Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment.”
