Kenny Atkinson's departure from the Brooklyn Nets after a challenging season marked a pivotal moment in his coaching career. Following a mutual agreement to part ways, Atkinson reflected on the emotional toll it took on him and his family. The Nets, under interim head coach Jacque Vaughn, saw a resurgence, culminating in a playoff appearance, albeit a sweep by the Toronto Raptors. After his exit, Atkinson honed his skills as an assistant for both the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors, eventually landing as head coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Under Atkinson's leadership, the Cavaliers experienced a remarkable turnaround, finishing the regular season with a stellar 64-18 record and earning him the coveted Coach of the Year award. Atkinson admits that the adversity faced during his time with the Nets was instrumental in his growth as a coach, allowing him to develop confidence and a deeper understanding of the game.