BOSTON – Ime Udoka, the Boston Celtics new head coach, has tested positive for a breakthrough case of COVID-19.
Celtics spokesman Christian Megliola confirmed to WFXT on Monday that Udoka, who is vaccinated, was asymptomatic and on the last day of his 10-day quarantine.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a vaccine breakthrough infection happens when a fully vaccinated person gets infected with COVID-19, and people diagnosed with vaccine breakthrough infections may still spread the virus to others. Research collected to date indicates that vaccinated people are 8 times less likely to be infected and 25 times less likely to experience hospitalization or death due to COVID-19, the agency stated.
The new coach participated in the team’s media day on Monday via Zoom, WFXT reported.
Udoka, 43, was hired this summer to replace Brad Stevens, who stepped down as coach in June to run the franchise’s basketball operations, replacing Danny Ainge. He previously served as an assistant with the Brooklyn Nets, ESPN reported.
Meanwhile, Megliola confirmed to WFXT that Udoka is expected to be in person with the team when training camp begins Tuesday.
More coronavirus pandemic coverage:
>> Coronavirus: How long between exposure to the virus and the start of symptoms?
>> How to not let coronavirus pandemic fatigue set in, battle back if it does
