Cavaliers make a remarkable 9-0 start by getting coach Kenny Atkinson soaked
The Cleveland Cavaliers, inspired by Jarrett Allen, marked the franchise's inaugural 9-0 start to a season by dousing coach Kenny Atkinson with water bottles in the locker room.
While the stakes will undoubtedly rise in future games, the Cavs' 131-122 triumph over New Orleans on Wednesday night was a significant achievement in its own right.
Atkinson, however, took a moment to relish this milestone, a feat no other Cavaliers team has accomplished in the 55 years since the franchise entered the NBA in the 1970-71 season.
“You have to,” Atkinson remarked, noting that he also became the first NBA coach to win his first nine games with a new team. “The season is long, and winning in this league is challenging. Therefore, when you experience moments like this, it is essential to celebrate a little.”
With a shooting percentage of 54.2% in New Orleans, including 48.6% (17 of 35) from beyond the arc, the Cavaliers currently lead the NBA with a field goal percentage of 52.6% for the season.
“We’re playing good basketball,” stated All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, who led the team with 29 points in New Orleans, while five other players contributed 11 or more points. “We’ve achieved success in various ways, including blowouts, close contests, and come-from-behind victories.”
Mitchell expressed his enthusiasm by stating, "What truly excites me are the habits we are developing. My primary focus is on maintaining consistency. Let us strive to remain this cohesive team."
Cleveland's next matchup is scheduled for Friday night at home against the Golden State Warriors, who established the NBA record for the best season start by winning their first 24 games during the 2015-16 season.
In their game against the Pelicans, the Cavaliers received 50 points from their bench, while four out of five starters contributed 14 points or more.
"Once again, everyone plays a role," Atkinson remarked. "This is characteristic of successful teams. We are in a favorable position both physically and mentally."
"When you achieve nine consecutive victories, it is not solely due to one or two players; it is a collective effort from the entire roster," he added.
During his four seasons as head coach with Brooklyn, Atkinson managed only one winning record, finishing 42-40 in the 2018-19 season.
He spent the last four years as an assistant coach, initially with the Los Angeles Clippers and subsequently with Golden State.
Now, he is experiencing a promising beginning in his second head coaching role, leading a team that advanced in the playoffs last season and is anticipated to contend in the Eastern Conference postseason this year.
"The atmosphere is excellent, the energy is high, and he has done an outstanding job with us while also encouraging our input," Mitchell noted. "This collaborative approach is what makes it special."
Atkinson, for his part, expresses satisfaction with the rapport he has observed not only among his players but also in their relationship with him.
"My focus is on this team and the camaraderie they share, as well as the chemistry we are building and how interconnected they are," Atkinson stated.
"I feel fortunate to be part of such a talented group that has experienced success in the past, and I believe they are pleased with my presence in the locker room."
"There exists a connection between the head coach and the team," Atkinson continued. "It is essential to celebrate those moments, and it is truly rewarding."
SportsLigue