BREAKING NEWS: The co-owner of Boston Celtics, Stephen Pagliuca, just suspended Head Coach Joe Mazzulla from all team activities after he tested positive for a banned substance under…….. view more

🛑 BREAKING NEWS: Celtics Head Coach Joe Mazzulla Suspended After Testing Positive for Banned Substance

In a shocking development that has sent tremors through the NBA community, Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca has officially suspended Head Coach Joe Mazzulla from all team activities after Mazzulla reportedly tested positive for a banned substance, according to anonymous league sources.

The suspension comes just weeks after the Celtics wrapped up another dominant season, with Mazzulla at the helm guiding the team deep into playoff contention.

🚨 The Alleged Violation

According to unconfirmed reports, the 36-year-old coach allegedly tested positive for a substance listed under the NBA’s prohibited list — a policy typically applied to players but rarely enforced on coaches. The nature of the substance has not been publicly disclosed, but insiders suggest it could fall under the category of stimulants or performance-enhancing substances.

“We are conducting a thorough internal review and have placed Coach Mazzulla on immediate suspension pending further investigation,” said Pagliuca in a brief statement to media outlets. “We hold everyone in the organization — from players to leadership — to the highest professional standards.”

🏀 Team Fallout

Assistant Coach Charles Lee is expected to take over head coaching duties in the interim. Lee has served as the Celtics’ lead assistant since 2023 and is reportedly well-respected in the locker room.

Players appeared stunned by the announcement, with several reportedly learning the news during a private team meeting Thursday morning. Star forward Jayson Tatum was seen leaving the facility without comment.

📜 A Complicated Legacy

Mazzulla, who took over as head coach after Ime Udoka’s suspension in 2022, has been widely credited for reshaping the team’s culture and leading them to their 2024 NBA Championship — the franchise’s first in over a decade.

Now, that legacy is suddenly in question.

🧪 What’s Next?

The NBA has yet to issue a formal comment. It remains unclear if the league will take additional disciplinary action or if this suspension will affect Mazzulla’s long-term future with the organization.

Celtics fans and analysts alike are left wondering: what caused one of the brightest young coaching careers in the league to derail so suddenly?