Kenny Atkinson: A Journey of Growth, Resilience, and Unprecedented Success
Kenny Atkinson's coaching career is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA. As the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Atkinson is now making headlines, having led his team to a record-breaking start. The Cavaliers, under his leadership, emerged victorious in their first 15 games, setting a new benchmark for a coach debuting with a fresh squad. This remarkable beginning is not only a reflection of Atkinson's strategic acumen but also an embodiment of his journey through the NBA's diverse echelons.
Atkinson's post-playing career began in earnest with the New York Knicks, a period marked by ambition and challenges. His first major head-coaching role came with the Brooklyn Nets in 2016, a team languishing at the bottom of the standings. Over Atkinson's initial two seasons, the Nets recorded a dismal 48-116 mark, a stretch that tested his resilience and coaching philosophy.
"I was a little crazy," Atkinson recalled, reflecting upon those years fraught with pressure and the burden of expectation. "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." Atkinson's candid reflection reveals the toll that comes with the fight for upward mobility within the NBA ranks.
Yet, true to his spirit, Atkinson's journey was far from over. By his third season, the Nets had fought their way to a 42-40 record, earning a coveted playoff berth. While the journey was challenging, Atkinson emerged with invaluable experience and insights. "The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach," Atkinson shared, emphasizing his commitment to turning setbacks into motivation. "But I will tell you I'm competitive, and when you have setbacks, you remember things, right? ... You're motivated to prove people wrong."
Eventually concluding his tenure with the Nets after the 2019-20 season, Atkinson worked as an assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers. This interim period paved the way to his next opportunity with one of the league's most prestigious teams, the Golden State Warriors. His efforts were rewarded, as he played a significant role in coaching the team to an NBA championship in 2022. This experience not only enriched Atkinson's repertoire but also re-established him as a distinguished figure in coaching circles.
Returning to a head coaching position with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Atkinson brought with him a wealth of experience and a renewed perspective on leadership. His collaborative coaching model has seamlessly integrated with the Cavaliers' dynamic, pushing them to the Eastern Conference's top ranks. This model has been instrumental in creating a winning culture that resonates well with both new and familiar faces. Notably, former Nets players Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert have become key figures under Atkinson's tutelage in Cleveland, a testament to the trust and understanding developed in Brooklyn.
Atkinson's rapport with his players continues to highlight his unique approach to coaching, built on genuine connections and honest communication. "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," Atkinson joked, pointing to the deep mutual respect and rapport cultivated with his players. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached."
Reflecting on his tenure with the Nets, Atkinson holds Brooklyn in high regard. "A city that breathes basketball," he describes it, underscoring the passionate fanbase and vibrant culture inherent to the borough.
As Kenny Atkinson guides the Cleveland Cavaliers with a steady hand, his journey through the highs and lows of his coaching career serves as a masterclass in perseverance, resilience, and growth. His story is one of a relentless pursuit of excellence, marked by lessons learned and triumphs achieved. With each game, Atkinson continues to inspire not only his team but also a wider audience of basketball enthusiasts, promising to leave an indelible mark on the game he so passionately cherishes.