Kenny Atkinson has transitioned from his early days as head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, where he often found himself on an exercise bike at 4:30 a.m. after tough losses, to a more balanced approach that has positively impacted both his health and coaching success.
On Monday, Atkinson made his return to Brooklyn, this time leading the Cleveland Cavaliers, a team currently enjoying the best record in the NBA. Atkinson, who has his roots in Long Island and is a 2020 inductee into the Suffolk County Sports Hall of Fame, previously coached the Nets for four seasons beginning in 2016. Despite struggles in his first two seasons with a dismal 48-116 record, he utilized rigorous early morning workouts as a way to channel his frustration and drive to prove himself.
Reflecting on that time, Atkinson admitted to being a bit “crazy” as he was deeply motivated not to fail. After two challenging years, he recognized that his intense approach was detrimental to his health. “It was almost like we’re at the bottom. We’re the worst team in the league,” he said, explaining the desperation to improve during those initial years.
After achieving a respectable 42-40 record and making the playoffs in his third year, Atkinson was unexpectedly let go during the 2019-20 season. Subsequently, he served four years as an assistant coach, working one year with the Los Angeles Clippers and three seasons with the Golden State Warriors. During his tenure in Golden State, he was part of the coaching staff that clinched the NBA championship in 2022.
Atkinson asserts that this journey post-Brooklyn was instrumental in refining his coaching abilities. “The journey after Brooklyn really helped me grow as a coach,” he reflected, noting that setbacks have fueled his motivation to succeed. In his current role, he has embraced a more collaborative approach, delegating responsibilities to his assistants, which marks a significant evolution in his coaching style that has greatly benefited the Cavaliers.
The Cavaliers have made history under Atkinson, winning their first 15 games and setting the record for the most consecutive victories for a new head coach in the NBA. They currently lead the Eastern Conference, surpassing even the defending champion Boston Celtics. Players like Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert, who played under Atkinson in Brooklyn, have witnessed his growth firsthand. Atkinson humorously mentioned his coaching style, noting, “I yell at (LeVert) every once in a while just to keep him on his toes.” He expressed a newfound freedom to coach his players firmly, as they appreciate that direction.
Atkinson’s return to Brooklyn resonated with nostalgic sentiments about the city’s vibrant basketball culture. He fondly remarked, “It’s a great basketball city. Brooklyn breathes basketball,” highlighting the community’s passion for the game that permeates everyday interactions—from delis to pizzerias.
Overall, Atkinson’s transformation both as a coach and an individual reflects a positive and promising future for the Cavaliers, driven by a renewed understanding of himself in the highly competitive world of the NBA.