Danny Ainge dived into his new job yesterday, saying the Celtics have ``a tough road ahead'' moments after being announced as their new executive director of basketball operations.

Ainge signed a three-year contract at $3 million per to navigate that highway.

Co-owner Wyc Grousbeck introduced Ainge as ``one of the most aggressive, intelligent, successful and competitive Celtics of all time.''

The new ownership has given Ainge full authority over the basketball side of the operation.