Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla has always done things his way. Despite the team’s second-round playoff exit in the 2024-25 season, his unique coaching style led the Celtics to their 18th championship title, cementing his reputation as a bold and effective leader. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Mazzulla’s philosophy includes a notable distrust of rookies, a stance that came to light through a candid moment with first-year player Baylor Scheierman.
During an exclusive interview on The Garden Report, Scheierman shared a revealing conversation from the Celtics’ 2024 training camp. Mazzulla didn’t mince words when addressing the rookie: “Listen, I don’t really like rookies,” he said. “So you’re gonna have to battle this year, and that’s kind of how it is.” Scheierman, unfazed, responded with a determined, “Alright, that’s alright,” ready to take on the challenge.
Mazzulla’s apprehension toward playing rookies isn’t uncommon, especially for coaches leading championship-contending teams. Rookies often need time to adjust to the NBA’s pace and intensity, and Mazzulla’s high expectations reflect his focus on winning. However, Scheierman took the warning as motivation, working tirelessly to prove himself.
Joe Mazzulla does NOT LIKE Rookies😂
“He was pretty much like: ‘Listen I don’t really like rookies.'”
Baylor Scheierman joins @TheGardenReport on @CLNSMedia: https://t.co/qKkDraK3kh pic.twitter.com/kNQ1s1rcqN
— Garden Report: Celtics Postgame on CLNS (@TheGardenReport) June 6, 2025
Throughout the 2024-25 regular season, Scheierman’s playing time was limited early on, as Mazzulla’s trust in him developed slowly. But when injuries left the Celtics shorthanded, Mazzulla gave the rookie more opportunities, and Scheierman delivered. Showcasing his skills as a sharpshooter and a playmaker, he earned optimism about his future with the team.
With star forward Jayson Tatum sidelined indefinitely, Scheierman’s role could expand significantly in the upcoming season. Mazzulla’s blunt warning, while initially harsh, seems to have lit a fire under the rookie, pushing him to elevate his game. This tough-love approach is resonating beyond Scheierman, inspiring the entire Celtics roster to stay sharp and hungry as they aim to build on their championship legacy.