Kenny Atkinson: From Early Struggles to Setting Records in Cleveland
Kenny Atkinson, a seasoned name in the NBA coaching ranks, is making waves as the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Known for his intense commitment to the game, Atkinson's journey from the sidelines with the New York Knicks to leading teams to the NBA playoffs and beyond is a tale of growth, resilience, and redemption.
After concluding a professional playing career, Atkinson’s coaching odyssey began with a position at the New York Knicks. His determination and passion for basketball were evident early on. Reflecting on those formative years, Atkinson admitted, "I was a little crazy. I was desperate to make it. I really got after it, but I knew even after two years in Brooklyn, it was bad for my health." His comments reveal the pressures and challenges he faced in the fast-paced world of NBA coaching.
In 2016, Atkinson earned the coveted position of head coach for the Brooklyn Nets. However, the transition was anything but smooth. Over his first two seasons, the Nets struggled, recording a dismal 48-116 mark. But his perseverance paid off. By his third season, the team had improved significantly, finishing with a 42-40 record and securing a playoff berth. Although his tenure with the Nets ended after the 2019-20 season, Atkinson looks back at his time in Brooklyn with fondness, describing it as "a city that breathes basketball."
Post-Brooklyn, Atkinson's professional journey led him to assistant roles with the Los Angeles Clippers and then the Golden State Warriors. His time with the Warriors was particularly rewarding. Atkinson was part of the coaching staff that achieved the ultimate NBA honor, winning the championship in 2022. Reflecting on his path, Atkinson shared, "The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach. But I will tell you I'm competitive, and when you have setbacks, you remember things, right? ... You're motivated to prove people wrong."
At the start of the current season, Atkinson took on the role of head coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and his impact was immediately felt. The Cavaliers made an impressive start, winning their first 15 games—a record for a coach in his inaugural year with a new team. With Atkinson at the helm, the Cavaliers are topping the Eastern Conference standings. His adoption of a collaborative coaching model has been pivotal, fostering a cohesive team environment.
Atkinson’s familiarity with players like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, who were key figures during his Brooklyn days and are now with Cleveland, has proven invaluable. This synergy is evident in the dynamic performances on the court. Atkinson’s candid approach to coaching resonates well with his players. "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," Atkinson joked, emphasizing the mutual respect and understanding shared within the team. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached."
The Cavaliers’ remarkable performance under Atkinson’s leadership underscores his evolution as a coach. From the learning curves in Brooklyn to the heights of an NBA championship and beyond, Kenny Atkinson has carved a niche for himself as a coach who blends passion with strategic innovation. As the season unfolds, the Cavaliers, under Atkinson's strategic guidance, continue to be one of the most captivating teams in the league.