Nia Long Breaks Silence Following Fiancé Ime Udoka’s Alleged Affair

Nia Long is breaking her silence following reports that her fiancé Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka allegedly had an affair with a female staffer.

“The outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the community during this difficult time means so much to me,” Long said to PEOPLE. “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.”

The actress and Celtics head coach has been engaged since 2015. They share a son Kez Sunday Udoka. Nia also has another son, 21-year-old Maasai Dorsey II, from a previous relationship with actor Massai Dorsey.

Earlier this week, news broke that Udoka had a consensual relationship with a female member of the team’s staff. The team announced Thursday that he’s been suspended  from his role as head coach for violating “team policies.” The team also noted that his future with the Celtics will be evaluated.

“I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,” Udoka said in a statement to ESPN’s Malika Andrews. “I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team’s decision.”