Jimmy Butler missed a late three-point try that would have given Miami the lead, and Boston almost failed in their fifth play-off run.
Udoka's game-time shouts and tactical maneuvers helped the Celtics win, and they will now meet the Golden State Warriors in the finals, with game one set for Thursday, June 2 in San Francisco.
The Celtics led by 17 points in the second quarter, but a fourth-quarter surge helped Miami cut the lead to single digits several times as Boston's lead dwindled. The Celtics led by 17 points in the second quarter, but a fourth-quarter burst helped Miami cut the lead in half several times, as Boston's Marcus Smart, who finished with 24 points and nine rebounds, converted two free throws to clinch a playoff berth.
"This is a typical Celtics win," Udoka stated after the win.
“We fought through a lot of adversity this year. We’re a resilient group and tonight seemed to signify our season. We can’t ever seem to shut the door and have to grind it out.”
Udoka played for Nigeria in the 2005 and 2011 FIBA Africa Championships, winning a bronze medal in both tournaments.
At the 2006 FIBA World Championships, Udoka led Nigeria in scoring, assists, and steals.
Udoka also coached for Team USA under Popovich at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, along with Celtics assistant Will Hardy.
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