Nia Long Breaks Silence On Ime Udoka’s Scandal: It’s A ‘Difficult Time’

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Nia Long broke her silence on the controversies surrounding her fiance, the Boston Celtics head coach Making Udokawho was suspended on September 22 for an alleged consensual relationship. (opens in a new tab)ha female on the payroll of the NBA team. The beloved 45-year-old actress who made a name for herself in ’90s classics like Love Jones and Boys in the neighborhoodreleased a statement thanking fans for their support amid the controversy.

“The overwhelming love and support from family, friends and community during this difficult time means so much to me,” Nia said in the statement. CNN. “I ask that my privacy be respected as I deal with recent events. Above all, I am a mother and will continue to focus on my children.” The third watch alum shares a 10-year-old son with Ime and she has another son from a previous relationship.

Nia, 51, and Ime, 45, have been engaged since 2015 and share a 10-year-old son Times Sunday Udoka. The actress also has another son, 21 years old Massai Dorsey IIwith her ex, the actor Massai Dorsey.

Ime has been suspended for the entire 2022-2023 season by the Celtics after they claimed he had violated “team policy” and said his future with the team would be assessed in a statement released on Thursday. Five. After the news was released, Ime spoke up ESPN. “I would like to apologize to the players, the fans, the entire Celtics organization and my family for letting them down,” he said. “I apologize for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team’s decision. Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment.”

Last year, when Ime was promoted to head coach after nine years as an assistant, Nia voiced her pride in her daughter. “He is one of the most disciplined people I know. He worked really hard for this and now he has to work with his players and do what he does best,” she said. PopCulture.com at that time. “So it’s an exciting time for our family to be in the stands.”