While Nia Long and Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka have been together for well over a decade, they took another step forward in their relationship two weeks ago when she moved to Boston to be near him. Days later, though, she found out that her fiancé had been having an affair with a married front office staffer.
TMZ reported that Ime came clean about the affair to the "Friday" actress this week, but only did so because he knew news of his infidelity was about to be made public. The report said Ime knew back in July that the team busted him but he kept Nia in the dark for months, even as she was house-hunting in Boston.
In other words, Ime was fully aware that his affair had been discovered when Nia began thinking of relocating to Beantown.
On Thursday, Sept. 22, the Boston Celtics announced that Ime, who led the team to the NBA Finals last season, will be suspended for the upcoming 2022-2023 season for violating team rules.
Earlier in the week as news of the affair become known, Nia shared a cryptic video about embracing positivity, spirituality and finding light after darkness. The video was reposted from a healing and wellness page.
On Friday, Sept. 23, the "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" star, who shares a 10-year-old son with Ime, released a statement via her publicist.
"The outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the community during this difficult time means so much to me. I ask that my privacy be respected as I process the recent events. Above all, I am a mother and will continue to focus on my children," she said.
Ime also released a statement. "I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down. I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team's decision," he said. "Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment."