Actress Nia Long has finally broken her silence following the suspension of Boston Celtics coach and her fiancé, Ime Udoka, who received punishment after his relationship with a married female staff member was revealed on Sept. 22.
According to TMZ, Long was completely blindsided by Udoka’s affair and only found out because the Boston Celtics coach knew his situation was on the verge of being released.
TMZ reported, “We’re told Ime knew way back in July the team was aware of the affair, and would be taking action. Meanwhile we’re told Nia only found out about it in the last few days … and only because Ime knew it was about to go public.”
As if finding out about a significant other’s infidelity just days before the news publicly broke wasn’t bad enough, sources close to Udoka and Long told TMZ that Long along with her 10-year-old son she shares with Udoka, Kez Sunday Udoka, recently relocated to Boston and the couple had been house hunting.
Although the “Best Man” actress has yet to publicly post, write or say anything about her situation online, Long gave TMZ an exclusive statement through her rep, Shannon Barr.
Barr told the news website, “The outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the community during this difficult time means so much to me.”
She continued, “I ask that my privacy be respected as I process the recent events. Above all, I am a mother and will continue to focus on my children.”
While Long will continue to focus on her children, many fans have been focused on supporting their ’90s IT girl during this rough time by rallying up against Udoka, who issued an apology on Sept. 22.
“I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting then down. I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team’s decision. Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment.”
