The Boston Celtics have officially extended head coach Joe Mazzulla’s contract, locking in the 37-year-old leader for the foreseeable future. The announcement came Friday via press release, with Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens praising Mazzulla’s leadership, work ethic, and deep connection to the franchise.
“We are very excited that Joe has agreed to extend with the Celtics,” Stevens said. “He understands the job and has a passion for the Celtics that is only rivaled by our most die-hard fans. He’s worked hard and accomplished amazing things in his first three years as a head coach — including averaging over 60 wins per season and winning the 2024 NBA Championship”.
Mazzulla, who took over as interim head coach in 2022 following Ime Udoka’s suspension, has compiled a remarkable 182–64 regular season record and a 33–17 playoff record. His 2024 title run included a dominant 16–3 postseason performance, making him the youngest coach to win an NBA championship since Bill Russell in 1969.
But while the extension signals stability and confidence, it also arrives at a moment of profound uncertainty for the Celtics. The upcoming 2025–26 season is shaping up to be Mazzulla’s toughest challenge yet.
Star forward Jayson Tatum is expected to miss most, if not all, of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon during the playoffs. The team also traded away Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday, and lost Luke Kornet to free agency. Veteran big man Al Horford is unlikely to return, and the Celtics are navigating a new ownership structure following a $6.1 billion sale to Bill Chisholm and investors.
In addition, the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement has imposed stricter financial penalties on high-spending teams, forcing Boston to be more cost-conscious in its roster construction. With fewer stars and tighter margins, Mazzulla’s ability to adapt, motivate, and develop talent will be tested like never before.
Still, the Celtics are betting on continuity. Mazzulla’s extension ensures that the team’s culture and identity remain intact, even as the roster evolves.
“Joe is a gifted leader who brings a consistent commitment to learning, improving, and maximizing each day we get to compete for the Boston Celtics,” Stevens added.
Mazzulla, in his own statement, called the extension “a blessing” and credited his family, staff, and players for his success.
“I look forward to competing for the Celtics and the city of Boston,” he said.
As Boston enters a season filled with unknowns, one thing is certain: Joe Mazzulla will be at the helm.
