NEW ORLEANS — The Cleveland Cavaliers marked a historic milestone by clinching their first 9-0 start in franchise history, thanks in part to a triumphant performance led by Jarrett Allen. Following their 131-122 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night, the team celebrated by drenching head coach Kenny Atkinson in water bottles inside the locker room.
While there will undoubtedly be more critical games ahead with greater implications, Atkinson took a moment to savor this achievement, which is a first for any Cavaliers team in the 55 years since the franchise’s inception in the 1970-71 NBA season. “You have to,” noted Atkinson, who also made history as the first coach in the NBA to win his opening nine games with a new team. “The season is long, and winning in this league is challenging. Therefore, when you achieve something like this, it’s essential to celebrate,” he added.
The Cavaliers showcased their offensive prowess by shooting 54.2% against the Pelicans, including an impressive 48.6% from beyond the arc (17 of 35). This performance has propelled them to an NBA-leading shooting percentage of 52.6% for the season. “We’re playing good basketball,” said All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, who led the team with 29 points in New Orleans, supported by five other teammates who scored in double digits. “We’ve achieved victories in various ways—blowouts, close matches, and comeback wins.”
Mitchell emphasized the importance of consistency, stating, “It’s about the habits we’re building that excite me regarding our progress. My main goal is to keep this momentum going and be the team we aspire to be.” The Cavaliers are set to face the Golden State Warriors at home on Friday, a team known for achieving an NBA record with a perfect 24-0 start during the 2015-16 season.
In their matchup against the Pelicans, the Cavaliers received substantial contributions from their bench, which accounted for 50 points, while four of their five starters scored 14 or more points. “Everyone plays a role, and that’s what successful teams do,” said Atkinson, who noted the team’s physical and mental well-being. “Winning nine games in a row isn’t due to one or two players; it’s a collective effort from the entire roster.”
During his previous four years coaching the Brooklyn Nets, Atkinson achieved only one winning record, finishing at 42-40 in 2018-19. Following his tenure, he served as an assistant coach—first with the Los Angeles Clippers and later with the Golden State Warriors. Now, he finds himself enjoying a remarkable start in his second head coaching role, leading a team that performed well in the playoffs last season and was anticipated to contend again this year.
“The vibes are fantastic; the energy is incredible,” Mitchell commented on Atkinson’s impact. “He’s done a phenomenal job and we’ve fully embraced his vision. He incorporates our input, which I believe is what makes our dynamic special.”
Atkinson has expressed satisfaction in the sense of unity he perceives among his players as well as between the team and himself. “What stands out to me is the camaraderie and chemistry we’ve built,” Atkinson shared. “I’m fortunate to have joined a talented group that has seen success in the past, and it’s rewarding to know that they’re happy for me too.”
He concluded with a reflection on the bond that forms between a head coach and their team, stating, “It’s vital to cherish these moments, and it’s quite an extraordinary experience.”