The Rise of Kenny Atkinson: From Brooklyn to Championship Glory
In the ever-evolving world of the NBA, coaching changes often make headlines. Yet, few narratives are as intriguing as the journey of Kenny Atkinson. After his initial foray into coaching with the New York Knicks, Atkinson's path took him across three major cities and two championships, showcasing his resilience and strategic acumen.
Atkinson first made his mark in the NBA coaching landscape when he was appointed head coach of the Brooklyn Nets in 2016. His tenure began with challenges, as the Nets recorded a daunting 48-116 mark over his initial two seasons. Reflecting on those challenging years, Atkinson remarked, "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."
Despite the rocky start, Atkinson's perseverance bore fruit by his third season, when he guided the Nets to a 42-40 record and a much-coveted playoff berth. Atkinson's coaching philosophy thrives on collaboration, and he built strong relationships with players like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, who were pivotal during his time in Brooklyn and continue to play key roles under his leadership in Cleveland. "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," Atkinson joked, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect between coach and players. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached."
However, Atkinson's journey with the Nets concluded after the 2019-20 season. An interlude as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Clippers followed, where he honed his skills amidst a talented roster. This pivotal experience led him to the Golden State Warriors, where he joined the coaching staff and successfully clinched an NBA championship in 2022.
Reflecting on his journey after Brooklyn, Atkinson shared, "The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach. 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 growth was evident as Atkinson shouldered the responsibility of leading the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Under Atkinson's stewardship, the Cavaliers have witnessed a remarkable transformation. His arrival at Cleveland marked an illustrious beginning, as the team won their first 15 games under his leadership—a record for a coach with a new team. Atkinson's strategic insight and collaborative coaching model have propelled the Cavaliers to the top of the Eastern Conference standings. His influence goes beyond tactics, as he fosters an environment where players are not only challenged but also supported, allowing them to thrive.
The presence of former Brooklyn talents Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert in Cleveland adds another layer of depth to Atkinson’s current success. These players' familiarity with Atkinson's style and expectations have been integral in translating his vision on the court. Atkinson notes, "Brooklyn is a city that breathes basketball," a sentiment that he seems to have carried with him to Cleveland, in both mentality and passion.
As the season progresses, Kenny Atkinson’s narrative continues to captivate fans and analysts alike. With his collaborative approach and resilient spirit, he embodies the transformative power of coaching in the NBA. His journey from the challenges in Brooklyn to winning an NBA title in Golden State and now leading the Cleveland Cavaliers showcases not just his professional prowess, but also his enduring commitment to growth and excellence in basketball.