Cleveland, Ohio – The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a significant move in their coaching staff by hiring Kenny Atkinson, an assistant coach from the Golden State Warriors, as their next head coach. In an effort to bolster their team for the upcoming season, the Cavaliers are finalizing a deal with Atkinson, who is set to bring his expertise in player development to the organization.
Atkinson was selected over James Borrego, the associate head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, after an extensive selection process. Borrego is now expected to shift his focus to the Detroit Pistons for a potential coaching position. With Atkinson on board, the Cavaliers aim to build upon their recent success of advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals and winning 99 regular-season games in the past two years.
As a former head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, Atkinson has a proven track record of nurturing young talent. Cavaliers’ president of basketball operations Koby Altman and general manager Mike Gansey are excited for Atkinson’s arrival and believe that his player development program will benefit promising young center Evan Mobley.
One of Cleveland’s top priorities for the offseason is securing All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell with a contract extension. Mitchell currently has one year remaining on his contract before he can explore other options. With Atkinson’s experience of 118-190 record in his tenure with the Nets, the Cavaliers are optimistic about the growth and development he will bring to the team.
Atkinson’s coaching journey includes stints with the New York Knicks, Atlanta Hawks, LA Clippers, and most recently the Golden State Warriors. His decision to join the Cavaliers signals a new chapter in his coaching career and a fresh opportunity to make an impact in Cleveland. Through Atkinson’s guidance, the Cavaliers are poised to continue their upward trajectory and solidify their presence in the competitive NBA landscape.