Kenny Atkinson signs 5-year contract to coach Cavaliers after playoff appearance

In a significant move for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Kenny Atkinson, former Golden State Warriors assistant coach, has signed a five-year contract to become the head coach of the team. This decision follows a month-long search after the departure of J.B. Bickerstaff, with Atkinson's coaching experience and reputation for player development being key factors in his selection. Atkinson, who recently assisted the French national team in preparation for the Paris Olympics, is expected to lead the Cavaliers to success both on and off the court. The 57-year-old Atkinson's hiring marks a pivotal moment for the Cavaliers, who are aiming to build on their recent playoff appearances and compete for a championship. With a focus on nurturing young talent like 23-year-old forward Evan Mobley and securing key players like All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell on long-term contracts, Atkinson's coaching expertise is seen as crucial for the team's future success. His track record of offensive success and player development makes him a safe and sound choice for the Cavaliers' front office and chairman Dan Gilbert. Atkinson's appointment comes after his previous stint as head coach of the Brooklyn Nets ended abruptly, and he is eager to establish a long-lasting relationship with the Cavaliers. His coaching abilities have been praised by colleagues like Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who highlighted Atkinson's strengths as a coach and a friend. The Cavaliers are banking on Atkinson's leadership to maximize the potential of their young roster and surpass the achievements of the previous seasons under Bickerstaff's guidance. With Atkinson at the helm, the Cavaliers are optimistic about their future prospects and are looking to build a competitive team capable of contending for an NBA championship. The partnership between Atkinson and the Cavaliers is seen as a strategic move to elevate the team's performance and achieve their goals in the highly competitive NBA landscape. As Atkinson takes on this new role, the focus remains on player development, team cohesion, and ultimately, bringing success to Cleveland both on and off the court.