Kenny Atkinson: A Journey of Resilience and Triumph
The city of Cleveland has long awaited a revitalization of its basketball fortunes, and under the stewardship of Kenny Atkinson, the Cavaliers seem poised for a promising new era. Appointed as head coach, Atkinson has steered the team to unprecedented success, with the Cavaliers clinching their first 15 games—a record for any coach debuting with a new team. This remarkable start also sees them atop the Eastern Conference standings, testament to the transformative impact of Atkinson's leadership.
From Humble Beginnings to the Bright Lights of Cleveland
Atkinson's journey in the NBA began after his playing days concluded with the New York Knicks. Finding his footing as a coach, he took on the challenge of rebuilding the Brooklyn Nets. Appointed in 2016, Atkinson endured a difficult start, with the Nets securing a 48-116 record over his first two seasons. Yet, his perseverance paid dividends by the third year as the team achieved a 42-40 record, earning a playoff berth. "I was a little crazy," Atkinson confessed, reflecting on the pressures of his early coaching years. "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."
The challenges endured in Brooklyn served as a crucible for Atkinson, molding him into the coach he is today. "The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach," Atkinson shared, carrying forward the lessons learned during those formative years. This relentless pursuit to improve underscores his competitive spirit. "But I will tell you I'm competitive, and when you have setbacks, you remember things, right? ... You're motivated to prove people wrong."
Collaborative Coaching: A New Chapter in Cleveland
After his time with the Nets, Atkinson refined his approach during his stints with the Los Angeles Clippers and the Golden State Warriors, the latter of which culminated in an NBA championship in 2022. Armed with fresh insights and experience, Atkinson has embraced a collaborative coaching model with the Cavaliers, earning respect from players and peers alike.
This synergy is further amplified by familiar faces. Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, who played pivotal roles during Atkinson’s tenure in Brooklyn, now contribute their talents in Cleveland. The bond forged over those years enables a unique coaching dynamic, one that Atkinson describes with a touch of humor: "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," Atkinson joked, underscoring the mutual respect between coach and players. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that’s how they want to be coached."
Renewed Aspirations and a City’s Gratitude
Through challenging times and newfound victories, Atkinson's journey mirrors that of his new city—a place yearning for sporting glory. Recalling his days with the Nets, he fondly describes Brooklyn as "a city that breathes basketball," a sentiment undoubtedly echoed by the basketball-fervent community of Cleveland, now buoyant with hope and imbued with the same love for the game.
Atkinson’s unwavering dedication and collaborative approach hold promise for a Cleveland Cavaliers team enthusiastic to build on their early-season success. His leadership, nurtured through trials and triumphs, has crafted a squad primed for future challenges. As the Cavaliers continue their ascent, the echoes of Atkinson’s past pursuits reverberate with enduring vigor, reminding all of the relentless journey that leads to triumph.