Kenny Atkinson's Impactful Start in Cleveland
In a remarkable debut season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Kenny Atkinson has already etched his name into the record books. As the head coach, Atkinson guided the Cavaliers to an unprecedented 15-game winning streak to start the season—a record for any coach joining a new team. His leadership has not only catapulted the Cavaliers to the top of the Eastern Conference standings but also rejuvenated a team looking to establish itself as a formidable force.
The Journey to Cleveland
Atkinson’s path to Cleveland is marked by a series of transformative experiences across the NBA landscape. His post-playing career commenced with the New York Knicks, a significant stepping stone that laid the foundation for his coaching philosophy. Atkinson was then appointed as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets in 2016, an opportunity that presented both challenges and revelations. During his initial two-year tenure, the Nets recorded a 48-116 mark, a struggle that did not deter Atkinson but rather fueled his determination to make an impact.
By his third season in Brooklyn, Atkinson had orchestrated an impressive turnaround, guiding the Nets to a 42-40 record and a coveted playoff berth. Reflecting on those early 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." The quote encapsulates the intensity and pressure he faced, lessons that have undeniably shaped his approach in Cleveland.
Concluding his tenure with the Nets after the 2019-20 season, Atkinson sought to refine his craft further. He joined the Los Angeles Clippers as an assistant, followed by a stint with the Golden State Warriors. It was with the Warriors that Atkinson celebrated an NBA championship victory in 2022, a testament to his adaptability and growth as a coach. "The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach," Atkinson shared. "But I will tell you I'm competitive, and when you have setbacks, you remember things, right? ... You're motivated to prove people wrong."
A Collaborative Approach in Cleveland
Atkinson’s success with the Cavaliers can be attributed to his innovative and collaborative coaching model. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, he has unlocked the potential of key players like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, both of whom were integral to his vision in Brooklyn and now serve as pivotal figures in Cleveland. "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," Atkinson joked, highlighting the rapport and trust he has cultivated with his players. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached."
Atkinson’s style is not simply about strategy and playbooks; it involves a deep appreciation for the spirit of the sport and the communities that support it. His heartfelt connection to basketball cities is evident in his description of Brooklyn as "a city that breathes basketball," a sentiment that clearly influences the immersive and passionate culture he aims to build in Cleveland.
Reshaping a Franchise’s Future
Under Atkinson's stewardship, the Cavaliers are not merely winning games—they are crafting a new identity. This transformation is evident not just in the standings but also in the energy that resonates within the fanbase. Atkinson's influence offers a promising trajectory for the organization, as he continues to nurture talent and instill a relentless competitive spirit.
With an eye on sustaining this successful start, Atkinson’s Cavaliers are poised to make a significant impact this season and beyond, affirming his place among the NBA's elite coaches. As the team rides this wave of momentum, the foundation he is building in Cleveland might just secure its legacy as a hub of basketball excellence once more.