Atkinson's Ascent: From Humble Beginnings to Cleveland's Head Coach
Kenny Atkinson’s coaching journey has been one of evolution, resilience, and ultimate success. Currently at the helm of the Cleveland Cavaliers, his path was carved through opportunities seized and challenges overcome. Known for his collaborative approach, Atkinson has quickly made an impact in Cleveland, steering the Cavaliers to unforeseen heights in a record-breaking debut season.
Atkinson’s post-playing career commenced with the New York Knicks, yet it was his time with the Brooklyn Nets that brought him into the spotlight. Hired as head coach in 2016, Atkinson’s early years with the Nets were a test of patience and perseverance. The team’s initial struggles were evident in their 48-116 record over the first two seasons. Nevertheless, he turned adversity into an opportunity to hone his coaching philosophy.
By the third season, Atkinson’s hard work bore fruit as the Nets clinched a playoff berth with a 42-40 record. Yet this success came at a cost, as the pressures of coaching took a toll on his well-being. "I was a little crazy," Atkinson confessed, "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." This introspection pushed him to reinvent himself, leading to growth both personally and professionally.
Reflecting on his stint with the Nets, Atkinson called Brooklyn "a city that breathes basketball," a place that taught him invaluable lessons about the sport and life within the high-pressure NBA ecosystem. His departure in 2020 marked the beginning of a new chapter, characterized by roles with prestigious teams that expanded his coaching expertise.
After parting ways with the Nets, Atkinson joined the Los Angeles Clippers as an assistant coach before enhancing his skillset further with the Golden State Warriors. The move proved fruitful, culminating in an NBA Championship in 2022. Atkinson’s tenure with the Warriors not only polished his tactical knowledge but reaffirmed his passion for leading teams to victory.
"The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach," Atkinson shared, acknowledging the profound impact of his experiences. "But I will tell you I'm competitive, and when you have setbacks, you remember things, right? ... You're motivated to prove people wrong."
This competitive spirit is now fueling his ambitions in Cleveland. Under Atkinson's stewardship, the Cavaliers achieved a remarkable feat, winning their first 15 games—a record-setting start for a coach with a new team. Such a performance underscored Atkinson's capabilities and his alignment with Cleveland's roster, setting the Cavaliers atop the Eastern Conference standings.
Key to Cleveland's resurgence has been the presence of players Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, who shared a previous rapport with Atkinson during their time together in Brooklyn. The coach’s familiarity with these players has facilitated a smooth transition, benefiting from a mutual understanding and respect. Ever the motivator, Atkinson joked, "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes... I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached."
Atkinson’s coaching model is distinctly collaborative, leveraging the strengths and insights of his entire team to forge a cohesive unit. This approach has resonated well in Cleveland, fostering an environment of trust, accountability, and collective ambition.
Kenny Atkinson’s narrative is one of determination, adaptation, and eventual triumph. From the trials of early coaching stints to the glory of an NBA championship and an exemplary start in Cleveland, his journey illustrates the resilience required to succeed at the highest level of professional basketball. As the Cavaliers continue their season, all eyes will be on Atkinson and his crew, eager to see how far this promising partnership can ascend.