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NBA·ANALYSIS·July 15, 2026 10:45 AM ET

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla trains in mixed martial arts

Mazzulla worked out with MMA coach Eric Nicksick.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 151 min read
Post on X
Joe’s been in the gym 💪👀 https://t.co/VaBV2zTQsQ Via @celtics on X

What happened: Combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani observed the workouts and discussed how martial arts concepts influence the team's coaching philosophy. The physical conditioning takes place during the NBA offseason as Boston prepares for the 2026-27 campaign.

Why it matters: Boston enters the upcoming season navigating a major roster transition after trading Jaylen Brown to target 2028 salary cap flexibility. Coaching adaptability will be critical as the organization integrates additions like veteran guard Mike Conley alongside Jayson Tatum. Maintaining tactical discipline remains a priority for a reshaped Eastern Conference contender.

What to watch: Training camp will reveal how principles refined during summer workouts translate to on-court execution. The front office continues evaluating roster depth ahead of preseason competition.

Sources

  • @celtics 
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