Follow usThe Cleveland Cavaliers have appointed Kenny Atkinson as their new head coach, as reported by Shams Charania. Atkinson previously served as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets from 2016 to 2020. Most recently, he has been a top assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors under Steve Kerr for the past three seasons.
The Cavaliers’ coaching search, which began on May 24 following the firing of J.B. Bickerstaff, was focused primarily on Atkinson and former Charlotte Hornets coach James Borrego. Despite early reports suggesting Borrego was the frontrunner, Atkinson emerged as a strong candidate in recent days.
Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert played a significant role in the hiring decision, marking a return to more active involvement with the team. Gilbert received a key endorsement for Atkinson from Michigan State coach Tom Izzo. This endorsement carried substantial weight, given Gilbert’s status as a Michigan State alum and his past attempts to hire Izzo in 2010.
Atkinson’s hire brings optimism to the Cavaliers, particularly due to his track record of improving teams through player development and strategic offensive schemes.
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