The 76ers' Ben Simmons, left, listens to assistant coach Ime Udoka during the second half against the Sacramento Kings in Philadelphia on Nov. 27, 2019. New Celtics coach Ime Udoka says it became evident early this offseason that of the open NBA jobs, Boston was the best available because of the talent on its roster. (AP file photo)

BOSTON — When Ime Udoka looks at the Boston Celtics’ roster, he sees a team with pieces to build around and endless potential.

He also sees a chance — and has been given an invitation — to push the team’s youthful core harder than it was under his predecessor.

The 43-year-old Udoka was introduced as the 18th coach in team history Monday, marking the latest course correction for the franchise as it looks to maximize its current window to capture an 18th NBA championship.

“We’re here to win Banner 18 together,” Celtics co-owner Wyc Grousbeck said. “I know Ime will do everything he can to make that happen.”

A former NBA player and first-time head coach, Udoka was among the sought-after names in the annual coaching carousel after gaining steady buzz behind the scenes in recent seasons. He has seven years of playing experience with five teams, along with assistant coaching stops that included seven seasons on Gregg Popovich’s staff in San Antonio.

He also spent a season in Philadelphia in 2019-20 and was an assistant with the Brooklyn Nets this season.