Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla says mid-series meeting with young cancer patients has helped him center his faith

Prior to Game 5, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla told reporters about a recent meeting with young cancer patients, an experience that is helping him center faith amid postseason pressure.

Prior to Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla was asked how he is dealing with any stress and keeping his composure.

The media wanted to know if he had any movies or television shows he was using as a helpful distraction. As it turns out, Mazzulla has been centering his faith and remaining mindful rather than seeking out easy diversions.

Mazzulla explained he recently visited with three young women, all of whom are dealing with terminal cancer. This experience was a lesson in maintaining perspective, Mazzulla said. Though Celtics are on the wrong side of a 3-1 series deficit and the 2023 postseason could come to an end sooner rather than later, Mazzulla explained he’s perfectly comfortable with where he is at.

I was helping them by talking to them, and they were helping me.” Mazzulla said.