As the saying goes, "History has a way of repeating itself," and for Kenny Atkinson, this adage holds some weight. The Cleveland Cavaliers' head coach has already made a mark in his new role, guiding the team to an unprecedented start with 15 consecutive wins, a record for a coach with a new team. The Cavaliers have surged to the top of the Eastern Conference standings, a testament to Atkinson’s leadership and strategic brilliance.
Atkinson’s Coaching Journey
Atkinson’s coaching odyssey began with the New York Knicks, but it was his time with the Brooklyn Nets that carved his reputation in the league. Appointed as head coach in 2016, Atkinson encountered a challenging start, with the Nets registering a 48-116 record across his first two seasons. However, his determination and coaching acumen began yielding results as the team secured a playoff berth in his third season with a 42-40 record.
Reflecting on those formative years, Atkinson shared, "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 tenure with the Nets concluded after the 2019-20 season, but it laid the groundwork for his evolution as a coach.
Post-Brooklyn, Atkinson continued to hone his skills as an assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers before transitioning to the Golden State Warriors. His time with the Warriors culminated in an NBA championship in 2022, a valuable experience that bolstered his coaching philosophy.
"The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach," Atkinson acknowledged. "But I will tell you I'm competitive, and when you have setbacks, you remember things, right? ... You're motivated to prove people wrong."
Building a New Identity with Cleveland
With the Cavaliers, Atkinson has adopted a collaborative coaching model, a strategy that fosters teamwork and shared responsibility—a culture that is resonating well within the squad. The fact that familiar faces like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, both pivotal during his Brooklyn days, are now donning the Cavaliers jersey has only reinforced this positive dynamic.
Atkinson’s ability to connect with players on a deeper level is evident in his interactions. "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," Atkinson joked, highlighting the mutual respect and understanding he shares with his players. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached."
The Atkinson Effect
Under Atkinson’s stewardship, the Cavaliers are not only demonstrating technical finesse but also a spirited cohesiveness that bodes well for the challenges ahead. His approach is not just about tactics and training regimes; it’s about instilling a winning mentality that drives performance. This blend of strategic prowess and emotional intelligence is what sets Atkinson apart.
The sense of basketball’s rich cultural tapestry is something Atkinson cherishes. "Brooklyn is a city that breathes basketball," he remarked, reflecting fondly on his time there. This appreciation for the game’s cultural roots shines through in his coaching, adding an authentic dimension to his methods.
Kenny Atkinson’s journey—from his trying early years in Brooklyn to his championship success with the Warriors and now his groundbreaking start with the Cavaliers—paints the portrait of a coach who has not only evolved but thrived on challenges. The Cavaliers' faithful have much to be optimistic about as Atkinson continues to weave his narrative into the fabric of the NBA, with determination and a competitive edge lighting the path forward.