The NBA saw some controversial finishes in recent weeks but the one between Boston Celtics and the Sacramento Kings should be put in the “wholesome” folder because of Joe Mazzulla.
The Celtics coach has given compelling answer to interviews before and most of them are classified as eerie or insightful. His latest one is far from anything like those.
Mazzulla decided to challenge a foul call against Jaylen Brown during a contact with DeMar Derozan. It occurred in the last two minutes of the game with his team up by 11. Initial reactions to the challenge was negative as many thought it was an obvious foul on the 2024 Finals MVP.
The coach probably knows that too as he tried to spin his reasoning. He said only wants to hear the voice of chief official Billy Kennedy.
Joe Mazzulla on his late-game challenge of a block called on Jaylen Brown: “Really just kinda wanted to hear Billy Kennedy. He does a really great challenge, and we were gonna do it anyway just to kinda hear him deliver the challenge.” pic.twitter.com/Pq1oQjSUJs
— Marc D’Amico (@Marc_DAmico) January 2, 2026
He said all that with a poker face. The referees retained the call and Derozan sank the two free throws.
Dammit the camera man cut away from Bill Kennedy pic.twitter.com/VUigqqvDo1
— Danielle Hobeika (@DanielleHobeika) January 2, 2026
Celtics won the game, 120-106.
Joe Mazzulla is relatable
Everybody can relate to Mazzulla as Kennedy’s announcement of coach’s challenge is already a side show in the league, big thanks to the showmanship he brings.
Bill Kennedy is always peak entertainment 😂 pic.twitter.com/QYQhjT7fpN
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 31, 2025
NBA ref Bill Kennedy has the best explanations 😂 pic.twitter.com/XNaJVLOvNC
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 27, 2025
watching bill kennedy announce another team’s challenge is unsuccessful vs. watching him announce yours pic.twitter.com/gJN98b8GDu
— Molly Morrison (@mollyhannahm) December 31, 2025
Anytime Bill Kennedy has the mic pic.twitter.com/0hz05iEPH8
— BOS in DC ☘️ (@bostonianindc2) January 2, 2026
For the latest Basketball Content
Make sure you are always updated on your favorite basketball players and teams. Follow us @HardwoodHeroics for the latest and trending news about NBA, college basketball, and more. Stay updated by reading more of our NBA articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!
