During the NBA Finals, Joe Mazzulla and his Boston Celtics took center stage. But while the coach’s on-court philosophies won Boston their 18th banner, his unique coaching styles were swept up by the media.
It would be difficult to find somebody more competitive than Mazzulla in the NBA. He puts his all into everything he does, tying in anything he can think of to make the Celtics better. From Tyreek Hill routes to Manchester City field spacing to killer whales, Mazzulla spares no lesson.
Mazzulla’s wild ways helped lead the Celtics to a championship, but he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
Joe Mazzulla is excited for teams to target the Celtics: 'I hope it's even 10 times harder than it was last year'
During a recent exclusive interview with John Karalis of Locked On Celtics and Boston Sports Journal, Mazzulla delivered one of his most psychotically electric quotes yet.
He was asked about the Celtics having a target on their back next year after winning a title, and Mazzulla said to bring it on (in his own, unique way).
“I wish we started tomorrow … I hope it's even 10 times harder than it was last year,” Mazzulla said. “People are going to say the target's on our back, but I hope it's right in our forehead, in between our eyes. I hope I can see the red dot.”
Clearly, the relaxing style of the offseason has worn off on Mazzulla. He seems more than ready to get back into the action of NBA basketball, and the Celtics are the same way.
Brad Stevens spared no expense this summer (in large part thanks to ownership). Boston will be bringing back nearly an identical roster, excluding only Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk.
After years of coming up short, the Celtics finally got over the hump last season, but they don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. Mazzulla won’t let them. He’s ready to bring Banner 19 to Boston as well, and after that, it will be onto 20.
Complacency is the enemy of sustained success in the NBA, but the Celtics aren’t going to fall victim to that issue with Mazzulla at the helm. Not only is the head coach ready to run it back with his guys in green—he’s ready to welcome all challengers with open arms.