As a first-time NBA head coach, Ime Udoka had an amazing debut season with the Boston Celtics in 2021-22, which ended with an Jap Convention championship and a berth to the Finals of the 2022 NBA.
However within the weeks main as much as the beginning of 2022-23 coaching camp, Udoka misplaced his job following a scandal linked to an inappropriate working relationship.
So, the upcoming 2024-25 season – Udoka’s second with the Houston Rockets – that is truly the primary time within the NBA that he has returned for a second season on the helm of the group.
With that in thoughts, Udoka was requested throughout Monday’s media day if there have been any advantages that may very well be realized in a second season — and particularly with a roster like the present Rockets, who haven’t got made main adjustments throughout the 2024 offseason.
Udoka replied:
The terminology, the academic factors, the novelty of me and my workers… it takes some guys time. However now we will get to work.
Continuity is an effective factor, so we needn’t educate as a lot. Been there, achieved that.
In his first season with the Rockets, Houston went from 22-60 beneath predecessor Stephen Silas to 41-41 beneath Udoka. This 19-win enchancment is the most important annual enchancment of any NBA crew.
However now, heading into Udoka’s second season, the objectives are increased – and he wasn’t shy about discussing it at media day.
“The playoffs are the aim,” Udoka mentioned. “The playoffs had been the aim final season, and we didn’t get there.”
Monday’s media day’s complete interview session with Stone and Udoka may be seen beneath, courtesy of Jackson Gatlin of Locked on rockets.
Extra: 2024-25 Media Day: As coaching camp opens, Rockets reply key questions
This text was initially printed on Rockets Wire: As camp opens, Ime Udoka expects Rockets to learn from continuity
