Celtics Coach Joe Mazzulla Says He Sleeps With Mouth Taped Shut

Boston’s head coach has an interesting approach to sleep.

Joe Mazzulla has an unquestionably demanding job as head coach of the Celtics, and apparently that’s led to him finding alternative ways to ensure he gets as much sleep as possible. 

On Wednesday, Mazzulla confirmed, via 98.5 The Sports Hub's Zolak & Bertrand, that he sleeps with his mouth taped shut, something he’s been doing ever since he started coaching in the league.

The 34-year-old revealed that he began using “sleep tape” due to the emotional, physical and mental drain that comes with the lengthy NBA season. After feeling “worn down” during his first year in coaching, Mazzulla said he began using the tape in order to maximize his sleep.

“There’s sleep tape out there. I actually have a mouthpiece now. I upgraded to a sleep mouthpiece,” said Mazzulla. “When I got to the NBA, I kind of learned how long of a season it is, physically, mentally, and emotionally. And I think coaches and players have to find ways to take care of themselves.”

• Get your seats to Boston Celtics games at SI Tickets

The tape is intended to encourage users to breathe through their noses while sleeping, rather than their mouthes. For Mazzulla, it’s something he vouches for, and he was encouraging the show’s hosts to try it out for themselves.

With Boston vying to win another NBA championship, it’s no surprise that its head coach is under plenty of pressure, but it seems he’s taking measures to ensure he’s getting enough rest to keep up with the demands of his job.