On a recent episode of Fox Soul’s TEA-G-I-F, the hosts delved into the latest developments surrounding Nia Long and Ime Udoka’s custody battle. While discussing the settlement, host Al Reynolds expressed his surprise at Long’s decision to end the relationship despite Udoka’s alleged infidelity.
Nia Long and Ime Udoka’s relationship began in 2010 and culminated in an engagement in 2015. However, their union came to an abrupt end in December 2022 when reports surfaced of Udoka’s alleged affair with a Boston Celtics staff member. The scandal led to Udoka’s suspension from the Celtics and his subsequent replacement as head coach. Recently, news broke that Nia Long and Ime Udoka had reached a settlement in their custody battle. According to The Blast, the former couple agreed to share joint custody of their 12-year-old son, Kez. Under the terms of the settlement, Udoka will pay Long $32,500 in monthly child support.
The settlement has sparked mixed reactions from the public. Some argue that Long’s decision to pursue custody and financial support for their child is justified, given Udoka’s alleged infidelity and subsequent professional repercussions. However, others including Reynolds’ have suggested that Long should have actually stayed with Udoka despite his unacceptable behavior. Here’s what Al Reynolds had to say:
More On Nia Long And Ime Udoka’s Split And Custody Battle:
In August 2023, TMZ reported that Nia Long filed for primary custody of their son, Kez, citing inadequate support from Udoka. In response, Udoka requested joint custody, setting the stage for a potentially contentious legal battle. The custody dispute highlighted the challenges faced by many separated couples in navigating the complexities of co-parenting.
As a result of their settlement, Kez will primarily reside with his mother in Los Angeles, spending 95 percent of his time with her. The remaining 5 percent will be spent with his father, who is now the head coach of the Houston Rockets.
In their settlement, it outlines several important provisions. Udoka will be responsible for Kez’s health and dental insurance, ensuring his well-being remains a priority. Additionally, both Long and Udoka will collaborate on decisions regarding their son’s education and general welfare. This shared responsibility reflects a commitment to maintaining a positive co-parenting dynamic despite the challenges they have faced.
What Has Nia Long Said About The Breakup And Scandal?
In an interview last year, Nia Long shared how disappointing the situation was overall. While speaking with The Hollywood Reporter she said,
“I think the most heartbreaking thing about all of this was seeing my son’s face when the Boston Celtics organization decided to make a very private situation public,” she says of the organization’s decision to call a press conference to publicly address Udoka’s suspension. Long explained at the time that she had to take her son out of school when the news broke, saying that it was “devastating, and it still is.”
However, despite the public embarrassment, she said, “The outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the community during this difficult time means so much to me,” Long also said in a statement issued to ET. “I ask that my privacy be respected as I process the recent events. Above all, I am a mother and will continue to focus on my children.”