Kenny Atkinson wins coach of the year after leading Cavaliers to historic season

In the United States, Kenny Atkinson was honored with the National Basketball Coaches Association's (NBCA) coach of the year award after a remarkable season leading the Cleveland Cavaliers. The announcement was made on April 19, 2025, recognizing Atkinson's efforts in guiding the team to a 64-win record and securing the top seed for the Eastern Conference playoffs. Under his leadership, the Cavaliers achieved not only the second-best record in the league but also became the second team in NBA history to record three separate winning streaks of at least 12 games throughout the season. This accolade is particularly significant as the NBCA has been awarding this title since 2017, named after Michael H. Goldberg, the first executive director of the organization. The award is voted on by the league's head coaches, highlighting recognition from Atkinson's peers within the competitive landscape of the NBA, where coaching excellence is both revered and respected. Following the award announcement, Atkinson expressed his humility and gratitude, attributing his success to the commitment and sacrifices made by his players, which played a crucial role in their achievements. As the Cavaliers head into the playoffs as the top seed, with Donovan Mitchell at the forefront of the team's strategy, they aim to establish their dominance against the Miami Heat in the first round of the postseason. The Cavaliers enter the playoffs with the highest-scoring offense during the regular season and are viewed as one of the favorites to win the championship, reflecting a transformation within the franchise under Atkinson's stewardship. Their performance throughout the season demonstrates consistent teamwork and resilience which have set a high standard within the league. As they prepare to face Miami, the Cavaliers are optimistic, striving for further playoff success while looking to solidify their standing as a formidable contender in the NBA.