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Kenny Atkinson's coaching influences Victor Wembanyama's NBA impact

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 12:04 PM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

Kenny Atkinson's coaching influences Victor Wembanyama's NBA impact

Summary

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson is credited with shaping the modern big man role in the NBA. His strategies, which evolved during his time with the Brooklyn Nets, have significantly impacted the play styles of players like Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren., these players are redefining the expectations for big men, successfully integrating perimeter shooting into their games. Brook Lopez, who benefited from Atkinson's coaching, recognizes the influence his former coach has had on this generation of players. Atkinson's coaching continues to evolve, with aspirations for Evan Mobley to develop an outside shot as well.

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By the Numbers

•Kenny Atkinson is credited with pioneering modern big man play styles.
•Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren are key figures in this evolution.
•Brook Lopez acknowledged Atkinson's influence on his success.
•Atkinson aims to develop Evan Mobley's shooting skills.
•This coaching impact marks a shift in NBA trends toward perimeter play.

Latest Updates

12:04 PMYahoo Sports — How Cavs' Kenny Atkinson paved the way for Victor Wembanyama & other bigs to change the NBA

What they're saying

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Surprisingly, Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson was the reason for why Spurs' Victor Wembanyama and other big men are changing basketball.
— Yahoo Sports

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