Joe Mazzula Calls Coach of the Year Award “Stupid”

Despite earlier dismissing the significance of the Coach of the Year award as “stupid,” Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzula has now won the honor.

Back in March, Mazzula made his feelings clear after being asked about the possibility of winning the award, especially after a strong season despite the absence of key players like Jayson Tatum. “I don’t need it. I think it’s a stupid award,” he expressed at the time.

However, the award was officially announced on Tuesday night. Mazzula led the Celtics to a solid 56-26 record, securing the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference and finishing just four games behind the top-seeded Detroit Pistons.

Mazzula didn’t just criticise the award; he suggested that it should be renamed to honor the entire coaching staff instead of recognizing just one individual. He shared his thoughts on this during a post-announcement interview, explaining, “It takes a lot to win a game: long nights, travel, game planning. Our players sacrifice so much to give us a shot, and I wish the whole staff could be recognized.” He expressed gratitude for the dedication of his players and staff alike.

With this accolade, Mazzula joins the ranks of only three other Celtics coaches—Red Auerbach, Tom Heinsohn, and Bill Fitch—to have received the award. Auerbach, notably, led the team to nine NBA titles, making his legacy unforgettable.

This accolade comes on the heels of the Celtics’ recent playoff experience. Mazzula had a significant role in the team’s journey in 2024, where they faced off against the Dallas Mavericks, winning the Larry O’Brien Trophy 4-1. Unfortunately, they faced a surprising exit in the first round of the playoffs this year, losing to the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 7.

At just 37 years old, Mazzula is now recognized as the youngest coach to win the Coach of the Year award since Phil Jackson did in 1975. There’s a touch of irony here, especially since he wanted to share the spotlight with his coaching team. Meanwhile, Celtics president of basketball operations, Brad Stevens, praised Mazzula’s leadership and highlighted his efforts in developing the team’s players amid a season filled with uncertainties.

Stevens remarked on the award, stating that it’s “well-deserved recognition” and a testament to Mazzula and his entire staff. He acknowledged the hard work Mazzula put into the season, helping his players reach their potential.

In the ranking for Coach of the Year, Pistons head coach JB Bickerstaff finished second, while Mitch Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs took the third spot.