In the high-stakes world of the NBA, few journeys are as compelling as that of Kenny Atkinson. Known for his relentless work ethic and fiery passion, Atkinson has become a veritable force, currently steering the Cleveland Cavaliers to new heights as their head coach. His path to success has been anything but linear, marked by both hardship and triumph, a narrative that encapsulates the very essence of perseverance and growth.
From Humble Beginnings to Brooklyn
Kenny Atkinson began his post-playing career with the New York Knicks, laying foundational stones that would shape his coaching philosophy. The big break came in 2016 when he was appointed as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets. Atkinson's tenure in Brooklyn was emblematic of a coach willing to push the boundaries, even at personal cost. He reportedly watched losses unfold at 4:30 a.m., poured over game tapes from the seat of an exercise bike—a testament to his single-minded focus. "I was a little crazy," Atkinson confessed, reflecting on the pressures of his early coaching years. "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 Nets faced a daunting challenge during Atkinson's initial seasons, as the team recorded a 48-116 mark over the first two years. However, it is in adversity that true resolve is often found. By the third season, Atkinson had instilled a noteworthy level of diligence and skill development within his roster, leading the Nets to a 42-40 record and a playoff berth—a stark improvement rooted in what Atkinson describes as "a desperation to get better."
Learning from Setbacks
Despite their comeback, Atkinson's time with the Nets concluded when the team missed the playoffs in the 2019-20 season. However, this setback did not mark the end of his story. Instead, it served as a pivotal learning experience. "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."
Following his departure from Brooklyn, Atkinson expanded his coaching prowess as an assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers before joining the Golden State Warriors. His time with the Warriors culminated in an NBA championship victory in 2022, fortifying his resume and affirming the strategic insights he had garnered over the years.
A New Era in Cleveland
The impact of Atkinson's growth and resilience is now palpably felt in Cleveland. Joining the Cavaliers as head coach, Atkinson wasted no time making history. The team achieved an unprecedented winning streak, bagging their first 15 games—a record for a coach with a new team. This remarkable performance solidified their standing at the top of the Eastern Conference, ahead of stalwart contenders like the Boston Celtics.
Atkinson's approach in Cleveland has been notably different. He has embraced a collaborative coaching model, delegating more responsibilities to his assistants, ultimately fostering an environment that thrives on shared leadership and accountability. This shift reflects a more mature Atkinson, one who walks the line between intensity and balance.
Moreover, Atkinson's bond with players like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, who were also key figures during his Brooklyn tenure, underscores his ability to nurture talent while maintaining a competitive edge. "I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes," Atkinson joked, emphasizing the mutual respect and understanding shared with his players. "I do feel freedom to coach those guys harder ... because that's how they want to be coached."
A Love for the Game
Atkinson's coaching journey is interwoven with his deep-seated love for basketball, a sentiment he often traces back to his time in Brooklyn—a city that, as Atkinson describes, "breathes basketball." The communal passion for the sport resonates with him, from casual conversations in local delis to vibrant discussions in pizza joints, marking the city's culture, which he truly appreciates.
In weaving his narrative, Kenny Atkinson not only exemplifies what it means to relentlessly pursue improvement but also encapsulates the spirit of mentorship, adaptability, and profundity in the game of basketball. His tale reminds us that in sports, as in life, perseverance can turn despair into triumph—a message he continues to embody with the Cavaliers, a team poised for greatness under his steadfast guidance.