Joe Mazzulla Backs Jerod Mayo’s New Patriots Gig: ‘He Does Have My Support.

BOSTON — Jerod Mayo was officially introduced as the newest head coach of the New England Patriots, taking over for Bill Belichick after a near-spotless 24-season run with the organization.

Peeking in from afar, Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla fully supports the move and can’t wait for the Mayo era to kick off. Mazzulla even offered a few details/takeaways from a previous visit to Gillette Stadium, which included spending some time with Mayo and New England’s defensive staff.

“I love Jerod,” Mazzulla said prior to Wednesday night’s Celtics-Spurs game. “The times I went over to (Gillette Stadium) to go visit, I got to spend time in the linebacker room, in the defensive room with him and Steve (Belichick). Just his ability to think the game, I like the relationship that he built with his linebackers and those (defensive backs).”

Mazzulla added: “He’s been around a long time. He’s coached there, he’s played, I don’t need to give him any (advice). But he does have my support and can’t wait to go over and sit with him and learn from him.”

 

Gregg Popovich jokes Celtics guard is ‘afraid’ of Spurs matchup.

San Antonio Spurs guard Derrick White talks with coach Gregg Popovich during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets, Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)AP

BOSTON — Legendary coach Gregg Popovich, whenever he’s asked about Derrick White, has only positive things to say about the former Spurs guard. White has emerged as an elite role player as he’s been one of the Celtics’ most important players this season.

But for the first time in his C’s tenure, White is sitting out a game because of an injury. It just also happens to be against his former team as the Celtics face the Spurs at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at TD Garden. So Popovich poked some fun at White for sitting against his old team.