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Kathleen Nimmo Lynch is rumored to be the Boston Celtics staffer who had a consensual relationship with coach Ime Udoka, according to the Daily Mail and US Weekly.
Lynch has been a part of the franchise for over eight years. The Celtics have not identified Lynch as being involved with Udoka, who has been suspended this season for violating the franchise's code of conduct.
The 34-year old was a team liaison who arranged travel, lodging and game tickets for the family members of the Celtics organization. Lynch is also close with former executive Danny Ainge for the organization, according to an article. (via DailyMail):
"Lynch has longstanding personal ties with the team's legendary former player Danny Ainge, who was the team's executive director of basketball operations before leaving the franchise last year."
The Daily Mail also wrote that Ainge became aware of the affair a few months ago. However, he chose not to get involved in any way.
"A source familiar with the investigation told DailyMail.com that Ainge learned early in the summer that the Celtics had initiated an investigation into Udoka's relationship with Lynch, but he did not intervene in the investigation or decision to suspend the coach."
Can Ime Udoka still be a head coach in the NBA?
Shortly after the Celtics found out about the incident, they wasted no time in suspending Ime Udoka for the entire season. Following just one season of being the head coach where he was able to take the team to the NBA Finals, Udoka's future in the league is in question.
With his suspension, it looks like the Celtics have plans to keep him in the loop despite him breaking the organization's code of conduct. Given the success and the impact that he was able to make in just one season, Udoka is still valued by the franchise.
His suspension will only last a season, and Udoka can still have an impact on the team by giving them enough moral support. Especially to Joe Mazzulla, who was named interim head coach by the front office.
However, no one knows if the other 29 teams in the league have changed their perception of Udoka. There have been reports of NBA teams inquiring with the Celtics organization about the details behind the coach's suspension for future employment.
The Boston Celtics will take on the Philadelphia 76ers on Oct. 19 to start their season.
