Kenny Atkinson was born on February 6, 1967 in Northport, New York to his parents Pauline and Neil Atkinson. He grew up alongside his four brothers, Mike, Steve, Tom, and Brian. At a young age, Atkinson developed a passion for basketball and dreamt of one day playing at the highest level.
Atkinson's dreams became a reality when he received a scholarship to play college basketball for the University of Richmond. He made a name for himself as a skilled point guard and led his team to a Sweet Sixteen berth in the NCAA Basketball Tournament in 1988. Atkinson's college career laid the foundation for his future success in the sport.
After college, Atkinson pursued a career as a professional basketball player. He played for several teams in Europe before transitioning into coaching. Atkinson's knowledge of the game and his leadership skills led him to various coaching positions, including roles with the New York Knicks, Paris Basket Racing, and the Atlanta Hawks.
In 2007, Atkinson joined the Houston Rockets as the Director of Player Development, where he played a crucial role in helping players reach their full potential. His success in this role caught the attention of the Brooklyn Nets, who appointed Atkinson as their head coach.
Atkinson's tenure as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets was marked by his dedication to player development and innovative coaching strategies. Under his leadership, the Nets experienced significant growth and improvement, earning a reputation as a competitive team in the NBA.
Atkinson's coaching style emphasized teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic. His ability to connect with players on a personal level and motivate them to perform at their best contributed to the team's success on the court.
Throughout his career, Kenny Atkinson has left a lasting impact on the world of basketball. His commitment to the sport and his ability to inspire others to reach their full potential have earned him respect and admiration from players, coaches, and fans alike.
As a father of two children, Annika and Anthony, Atkinson understands the importance of family and values the support he receives from his loved ones. His wife Laura has been his rock throughout his journey in the basketball world, providing unwavering support and encouragement.
Kenny Atkinson's passion for basketball, coupled with his dedication to coaching and player development, has solidified his place as a respected figure in the basketball community. His journey from a college player to a successful head coach is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and love for the game.