In December 2022, just three months into Joe Mazzulla's tenure as head coach of the Boston Celtics, his bold approach was already making waves. At 34, the rookie coach had transformed the Celtics from a defense-first team into an offensive juggernaut, captivating fans and drawing the attention of royalty.
A Royal Visit to TD Garden
When the Celtics faced the Miami Heat, the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate Middleton, were in attendance. A reporter asked Mazzulla about their visit, expecting a typical courteous response.
"Jesus, Mary, and Joseph?" Mazzulla quipped, evoking laughter. Upon clarification, he added, "Oh, no. I only know one royal family. I don't know much about that," displaying his unique sense of humor and devout Catholic faith.
Mazzulla's Unconventional Coaching Style
Mazzulla's fearless attitude extends to his coaching philosophy. He once remarked,
"What do I think of the rules? I don't care, I just play."
This irreverence, combined with his determination, has propelled the Celtics to their 18th NBA championship, making him the youngest coach to lift the Larry O'Brien trophy since Bill Russell in 1969. Critics like Charles Barkley and Kendrick Perkins questioned his reliance on one-on-one plays and three-pointers, but Mazzulla's faith in his methods remained unshaken.
Faith and Discipline: The Cornerstones of Success
Mazzulla's faith plays a crucial role in his life and coaching. Known for praying the rosary before games, he emphasized,
"Having the ability to handle the highs and lows, understanding there's a bigger plan, and using God's gift to impact others is my anchor."
This spiritual connection resonates with players like Jayson Tatum, Al Horford, and Jrue Holiday, fostering a strong team bond.
The Pep Guardiola Influence
Mazzulla's coaching is also influenced by soccer, particularly Pep Guardiola. His emphasis on spacing and player autonomy mirrors Guardiola's tactics, making the Celtics' offense difficult to defend.
"Joe helps players understand the play. His way of studying the game calms the team during tough moments," noted Jerrod Calhoun, Mazzulla's former coach.
The Human Touch
Despite his stoic demeanor, Mazzulla connects deeply with his players and staff. Known for his meticulous habits and creative motivational techniques, he has earned the respect and loyalty of his team. His journey from a young college player to an NBA champion coach is a testament to his relentless work ethic and unwavering faith.
Editor: Emiliia Morozova
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