Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla says his faith is what helps him navigate the crazy world of the NBA.
Boston Celtics head coach says he relies on faith to navigate the NBA originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Life in the NBA rarely slows down, especially in Boston. Every rotation tweak, injury update, or losing streak can turn into a headline within hours. For Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, however, the noise that comes with leading one of the league’s most scrutinized franchises is filtered through something far more personal than analytics or public opinion.
As the 2025–26 season moves forward, Mazzulla has been open about the role faith plays in how he handles the grind of professional basketball. After a disappointing playoff finish last spring and an offseason that reshaped the roster, outside speculation followed the Celtics into training camp. Internally, Mazzulla chose a different focus.
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“I always go back to Ecclesiastes 18:1,” Mazzulla said in a recent interview with Brandon Robinson of Scoop B Radio.
The verse — “He that liveth forever hath created all things in general” — serves as a grounding point for the coach amid the constant churn of NBA storylines.
“I think it’s important, especially in a season where they have all the storylines and a whole bunch of made-up stuff that comes through every 24 hours,” Mazzulla said. “That verse keeps your focus, and today is the most important day.”
Rather than getting pulled into trade rumors, standings projections, or expectations tied to banners and legacies, Mazzulla emphasizes presence. For him, the season is less about controlling outcomes and more about staying rooted in purpose.
That outlook has become especially relevant for a Celtics team adjusting to change. Veteran departures opened the door for younger contributors and new faces, while stars like Jayson Tatum continue working their way through the physical and mental demands of a long season. From the outside, questions linger about how high Boston’s ceiling might be.
Inside the locker room, Mazzulla’s steadiness has been noticeable.
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“Sports give you joy and frustration, but they don’t define you,” Mazzulla said earlier this season. “What defines you is whom you serve and how you use your gifts.”
Category: General Sports
