Kenny Atkinson steps into the role of Head Trainer for the Cleveland Cavaliers, a decision unveiled by Koby Altman, the President of Basketball Operations for the Cavaliers, straight from the Cleveland Clinic Courts, it was revealed yesterday.
Aged 57, Atkinson is now the 24th leader in the history of the Cavaliers squad, having previously been in the role of an auxiliary trainer for the Golden State Warriors over the past three seasons, a unit that recently secured the 2021-22 NBA Championship trophy. Additionally, he is set to serve as an auxiliary trainer for the French National Team as they gear up for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games this summer.
Altman stated, “After an exhaustive quest, we are thrilled to introduce Kenny Atkinson to Northeast Ohio as the latest head trainer for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Kenny brings a rich background, a verified track record of enhancing player abilities, and a firm commitment that is in sync with our vision for this team. His creative approach will introduce a distinctive style of play and basketball ethos that will put us in a good position for enduring triumphs and allow us to vie for Championships. His familiarity with coaching alongside some of the top talents in the NBA enhances this collaboration, and we are genuinely enthusiastic for Kenny to guide our team and aid us in achieving our goals both on and off the court.”
Prior to his time with the Warriors, Atkinson had stints as an auxiliary trainer with the Los Angeles Clippers (2021-22) and as the head trainer of the Brooklyn Nets for portions of four seasons (2016-2020). He ranks third in total games coached (308) and fourth in victories (118) in the Nets franchise history. After securing a record of 20-62 in his initial campaign, Atkinson guided the Nets to an enhancement of eight victories in his second term. In the 2018-19 season, Atkinson steered Brooklyn to a 42-40 record, clinching their first playoff appearance since 2015. The surge of 14 victories represented the third-highest among all NBA teams that season, with Brooklyn marking its third consecutive campaign of progress in its win-loss record, a feat not accomplished since 1990 to 1994.
Atkinson’s former coaching roles encompass auxiliary positions with Atlanta (2012-2016), New York (2008-2012), and a season as the chief of player development in Houston (2007-08).
Atkinson expressed his excitement by saying, “I am overjoyed and honored to undertake the role of head trainer for the Cleveland Cavaliers. It is a remarkable chance to guide an already skilled young group with a bright future. I have witnessed firsthand and had to devise strategies against this team as a rival coach, a task that was no simple feat. I am extremely delighted to now be on the side working to advance this team. I also extend my thanks to Koby Altman and the management for confiding in me and our shared ambition for lasting success in Cleveland.”
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