Atkinson's Ascent: A New Era for the Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers have embarked on a remarkable journey under the stewardship of Kenny Atkinson, and it's one that has the basketball world buzzing. Atkinson, who became the head coach of the Cavaliers, is no stranger to the intense pressures and nuanced intricacies of the NBA, having a storied coaching career that spans multiple teams and notable transitions. His leadership has already brought unmatched early success to Cleveland with a record-breaking start that has propelled them to the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
The Brooklyn Beginnings
Before taking the helm in Cleveland, Atkinson cultivated his craft through a series of transformative roles. After beginning his post-playing career with the New York Knicks, he was appointed as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets in 2016. Those early years in Brooklyn were challenging, with the team posting a 48-116 record during Atkinson's first two seasons. Yet, his relentless drive and determination paid off as he led the Nets to a 42-40 record by his third year, earning a coveted spot in the playoffs.
Reflecting on those formative years, Atkinson admitted, "I was a little crazy," acknowledging the immense pressures he faced. "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." It was an era that laid the groundwork for his evolving coaching philosophy, combining competitive spirit with a more holistic approach to leadership.
Journey to Championship Glory
Atkinson's career took a significant turn after his tenure with the Nets concluded following the 2019-20 season. He further honed his skills with assistant coaching positions, first with the Los Angeles Clippers, and subsequently with the Golden State Warriors. It was with the Warriors that Atkinson experienced the pinnacle of success, contributing to an NBA championship victory in 2022.
This championship journey enriched Atkinson’s approach, as he stated, "The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach." This growth was not just professional but personal too, driving him with a renewed fervor, "But I will tell you I'm competitive, and when you have setbacks, you remember things, right? ... You're motivated to prove people wrong."
Revitalizing the Cavaliers
With Atkinson at the helm, the Cavaliers have reported an unprecedented early success, winning their first 15 games—a record for any coach with a new team. A collaborative coaching model has proven key to their ascent, one that resonates well with the players, including much-respected figures like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, who were also pivotal during Atkinson's time with the Nets.
His approach balances discipline with understanding, fostering a culture of mutual respect. Atkinson humorously shared, "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," highlighting a bond that allows him the freedom to coach with vigor. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached," he remarked, showcasing his adeptness in tailoring his methods to resonate with his players' expectations.
Legacy and Future Prospects
As Atkinson continues to lead the Cavaliers, his past experiences remain a steadfast influence on his current success. Having described Brooklyn as "a city that breathes basketball," it's clear that his time there has informed much of his coaching identity. In Cleveland, Atkinson isn't just intent on winning games; he’s transforming a team with ambitious goals and an aspirational vision.
The early successes signal a promising era for the Cavaliers, driven by a coach who combines proven insights with innovational spirit. Kenny Atkinson's journey reflects a career crafted through perseverance, reflection, and an unwavering dedication to the art and passion of basketball.