Boston Celtics center Mitchell Robinson disclosed during the team’s media day that head coach Joe Mazzulla offered an apology for deploying the intentional-fouling strategy against him during the 2025 NBA playoffs.
Mitchell Robinson Demands an Apology for Past Hack-A-Mitch Tactics
The strategic matchup between New York and Boston during the second round of the 2025 postseason featured heavy doses of the “Hack-A-Mitch” approach, modeled after historical strategies used against career-long struggles at the charity stripe. Mazzulla defended the decision at the time by emphasizing process over results, even deploying the tactic when his squad held a lead approaching 30 points. Robinson finished that playoff series attempting 31 free throws while converting at a 45% clip.
Speaking to reporters with a smile, Robinson explained that clearing the air with his new coach was a mandatory prerequisite upon changing zip codes. Yeah, at first we had a little issue because I’m like ‘you got to say sorry for fouling me,’
Robinson said, according to Yahoo Sports. If he ain’t want to do that then I would have some issues. But he apologized and now we’re on the same team, so you know it’s gonna be great.
Offseason Free-Throw Adjustments and Nashville Visit Strengthen New Coaching Bond
Robinson carries a career 50.8% mark from the free-throw line, hitting a career-low 40.8% during the previous campaign. Determined to reverse those struggles following his move to Boston, the 28-year-old big man dedicated his summer to repetition. I shoote beaucoup de lancers-francs. BEAUCOUP de lancers-francs!
Robinson noted of his heavy volume of practice shots, adding that confidence in his shooting touch has steadily grown. Basket USA reported that Mazzulla further solidified their relationship by visiting the center in Nashville during the offseason.
Mazzulla expressed relief that opposing benches will no longer target his own center with intentional fouls. Mitch is one of the best bigs in the league and super efficient in his ability to impact games,
Mazzulla stated, per Yahoo Sports. Yeah, I’m upset that we’re not going to be able to foul him anymore, but that’s just how it goes. So he’s ours, and I think he’s going to be a big impactful for us … obviously coming off a championship, we can learn a lot from him.
Frontcourt Competition and Roster Role Questions in Boston
Training camp battles will determine whether Robinson or Neemias Queta claims the starting center role for the opening tip of the season, though Yahoo Sports notes that Queta earned strong consideration after last year’s campaign. Robinson maintains an indifferent stance regarding his spot in the rotation, having experienced both starting and reserve duties across his career with the Knicks, where he was drafted 36th overall in 2018.
For me, it doesn’t matter,
Robinson told reporters regarding his potential starting status. I started before, I came off the bench, been up and down. That don’t really bother me too much. So whatever happens, it is what it is. I’m gonna still continue to play hard and do what I do best.
Unresolved Roster Decisions Ahead of the Celtics Season Opener
While coaching staff evaluations continue through the remaining weeks of training camp, exact details regarding minutes distribution and closing lineups remain unconfirmed by the franchise. Neither Mazzulla nor the front office has formally announced the definitive starting frontcourt rotation, leaving the battle between Robinson and Queta open as official preseason play approaches.
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