Imagine knowing a future NBA legend before anyone else! Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson did just that with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Years before the MVP trophies, Atkinson saw the raw potential of the Bucks star and even wanted to trade for him. What makes some coaches see greatness where others don’t?
Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson showcased a remarkable foresight into the future of NBA stardom, particularly regarding Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, long before the Greek Freak ascended to his current legendary status. Atkinson’s prophetic prediction, revealed by former player Jeff Teague, underscores a keen eye for exceptional talent that few possess, identifying Antetokounmpo’s unparalleled potential early in his burgeoning career. This keen sense for NBA talent scouting highlights a unique ability to foresee greatness.
At the time of this astute observation, Atkinson served as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Hawks, a pivotal period that coincided with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rookie season in the league. This era marked the very beginning of the Greek phenom’s journey, a time when his raw athleticism and unique skill set were still largely undeveloped and unrefined in the demanding environment of professional basketball.
The extraordinary account of Atkinson’s insight comes directly from Jeff Teague, a former NBA point guard who played for the Hawks during that period and later won an NBA championship with Antetokounmpo himself. Teague recounted on the popular Club 520 podcast how Atkinson, with unwavering conviction, voiced his belief in Antetokounmpo’s eventual dominance to his peers, making one of the most accurate NBA predictions in recent memory.
According to Teague, Atkinson emphatically declared that Giannis Antetokounmpo was destined to become the best player in the NBA, placing him in the same elite category as then-emerging superstar Steph Curry. Atkinson’s conviction stemmed from observing Antetokounmpo’s unique blend of athleticism and skill, citing a specific instance of watching him execute a dribble and behind-the-back pass as a clear indicator of his immense capabilities.
So strong was Atkinson’s belief in the young prodigy that he actively advocated for the Atlanta Hawks to pursue a trade for Antetokounmpo after the team had missed the opportunity to draft him in 2013. The Hawks reportedly did express interest in acquiring the future NBA MVP, highlighting the value Atkinson placed on his potential, though ultimately, Antetokounmpo remained steadfastly with the Milwaukee Bucks throughout his entire career.
This isn’t an isolated incident for Atkinson; his ability to spot future greatness extends beyond Antetokounmpo. Teague further revealed that the Cleveland Cavaliers coach had also recognized the latent talents of other generational players, including Steph Curry, Kyrie Irving, and Nikola Jokic, at the nascent stages of their professional journeys, cementing his reputation as a true NBA talent scouting visionary.
Despite their mutual admiration and Atkinson’s early recognition of his potential, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kenny Atkinson have never had the chance to collaborate professionally on the same team. However, a fascinating hypothetical scenario could unfold in the coming years, presenting a unique opportunity for this long-foretold partnership to finally materialize if circumstances align perfectly.
Atkinson, having recently signed a five-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, remains committed to his current role. Meanwhile, Antetokounmpo’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks could see him become a free agent after the 2026-27 season, should he decline his player option. The prospect of the Cavaliers clearing sufficient cap space for the 2027-28 season could potentially pave the way for Atkinson to finally coach the superstar he predicted would dominate the NBA.
