Joe Mazzulla trains in mixed martial arts to connect with Celtics players

Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla engages in mixed martial arts to better relate to his players during the NBA season. Mazzulla, who has practiced the sport for the last four to five years, believes this training helps him empathize with the physical and emotional challenges the players face. He has actively sought to connect with his team, visiting players in Portugal and Spain this summer, and altered his media interactions to foster a close environment. With the Celtics potentially entering a challenging season without star guard Jaylen Brown, Mazzulla's leadership may be crucial for team cohesion.

• 9:55 PMYahoo Sports — How Joe Mazzulla uses mixed martial arts to relate to players