Sources told ESPN that the Boston Celtics are finalizing a deal with Brooklyn Nets assistant Ime Udoka to make him the franchise's new coach.
Udoka will replace Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens, who stepped down as coach earlier this month, replacing Danny Enge, who runs the franchise's basketball operations.
Udoka, 43, distanced himself early in the search process, sources said, and his candidacy was bolstered with strong recommendations from prominent Celtics stars — including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart — who will be back in 2019. Played for Udoka in Team USA. FIBA World Cup.
Udoka was an assistant with the San Antonio Spurs for seven seasons under coach Greg Popovich. He left San Antonio to join Brett Brown's staff in Philadelphia two years ago and this season moved to Brooklyn under Steve Nash. He spent many years in pro basketball as a player, including stops with the Lakers, Blazers, Kings, Knicks and Spurs.
Milwaukee Bucks assistant Darwin Hamm and LA Clippers assistant Chancey Billups had several interviews with the Celtics. Sources said both were considered top candidates in the process.