If it looks like Boston Celtics Head coach Joe Mazzulla was angry at the referees at the end of Thursday night’s loss to the Chicago Bulls. That would be incorrect to assume. At least that’s what Mazzulla wants people to think.
After the 117-108 loss, Mazzalla charged the court with requesting a statement from official Justin Van Dyne that appeared to be a reference to back-to-back tricks officials had given him and the Celtics forward. Jaylen Brown in the fourth quarter
Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla responds after being called for a technical foul. In the second half of the game against the Chicago Bulls at TD Garden on December 2, September 19, 2024 in Boston. (Picture of David Butler II-Imagn)
Many had to restrain Mazzulla, and he was eventually led off the court without incident.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS NEWS ON FOXNEWS.COM
During the post-game press Mazzalla said he picked up the technique of walking on the field. This is something he admits he shouldn’t have done, however, when asked what “message” he was trying to convey towards the end of the game. Mazzulla also has an interesting explanation.
“I haven’t seen them in a while. So it’s just… Merry Christmas, Happy holidays,” he said with a serious expression.
“I’m not sure I’ll see them before the holidays. And you can’t let time go by wishing someone the best for them and their family.”
Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla responds after being called for a technical foul. In the second half of the game against the Chicago Bulls at TD Garden on December 2, September 19, 2024 in Boston. (Picture of David Butler II-Imagn)
CELTICS head coach admits he ‘would like to look at something else’ as NBA rankings decline
However, Brown did not wish anyone a happy holiday in his discussions with game officials.
“I said to (Van Duyne), ‘You called technology for no reason.’ He said, ‘If you tell me one more time, I’m going to call another technology,’” Brown said, explaining that he approached Van Duyne to clarify what Mazzulla’s technology was for.
“You can’t threaten them with technical fouls. That’s not part of the game either. If you want to fine people for acting out and stuff like that – fine, that’s bull—.”
Jaylen Brown, No. 7 guard of the Boston Celtics, and Nikola Vucevic, No. 9 of the Chicago Bulls, chase down a loose ball in the second half of an NBA basketball game on Thursday, Dec. 1. on September 19, 2024 in Boston (AP Photo/Steven Zenn)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Mazzalla will have more opportunities to spread holiday cheer. When the two teams meet again on Saturday.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Follow Fox News Digital’s Sports coverage onand apply for membership Fox News Sports Huddle Newsletter–
