Category: Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach Kenny Atkinson Donates $5.5 Million Bonus to Charities and Homeless Relief

In an extraordinary act of generosity that has touched the hearts of fans and the broader community alike, Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach Kenny Atkinson has donated the entirety of his $5.5 million bonus to charities and organizations focused on homeless relief. In an era where professional sports are often associated with wealth, prestige, and personal brand-building, Atkinson’s gesture serves as a poignant reminder of the power of selflessness and social responsibility.

Atkinson, who joined the Cavaliers amid high expectations, has led the team through a successful season—one that earned him not only praise but also a significant performance bonus. Instead of pocketing the reward or investing it for personal gain, Atkinson quietly arranged for the entire sum to be distributed among several nonprofit organizations. These include shelters, food banks, mental health services, and housing-first initiatives across Cleveland and other underserved cities.

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate,” Atkinson said in a brief statement. “This city, this organization, and these players have given me so much. I wanted to give something meaningful back—not in words, but in action.”

What sets this donation apart is that it comes without the usual trappings of celebrity philanthropy. Atkinson reportedly declined to tie the donation to any personal foundation or media campaign. Moreover, he has kept his regular salary and sponsorship deals separate from this act, reinforcing that this was not a symbolic gesture but a conscious sacrifice for the public good.

Reactions have been swift and heartfelt. Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert called the move “inspirational,” adding, “Kenny has not only helped transform our team on the court but has set a new bar for leadership off it.” Star players from across the NBA, including LeBron James and Steph Curry, took to social media to praise Atkinson’s humility and humanity.

Advocates for the homeless and underserved say the donation could have a tangible impact, particularly in Northeast Ohio, where economic inequality and housing insecurity remain pressing issues. “This money will go directly to people who need it most,” said Denise Morrison, director of Cleveland Housing Network. “Coach Atkinson is not just giving money—he’s giving hope.”

For many, this moment is more than a generous financial contribution; it’s a call to action. In a world often divided by cynicism and self-interest, Atkinson’s donation offers a compelling example of what it means to lead with heart. It also challenges other high-earning individuals—athletes, coaches, and executives alike—to consider how they might use their resources to affect real change.

Atkinson may be focused on bringing a championship to Cleveland, but he’s already secured a victory far more significant. By turning a personal reward into a public blessing, he has reminded everyone what true leadership looks like: compassionate, quiet, and deeply human.

BREAKING NEWS: Excitement Hits Rocket Arena as Cleveland Cavaliers Legend Mark Price Returns to Team as Senior Coaching Advisor

CLEVELAND, OH — In a move sending shockwaves through the NBA community and igniting the passion of long-time fans, the Cleveland Cavaliers have announced the return of franchise legend Mark Price to the organization. This time, he’s not lacing up his sneakers, but rather bringing his wealth of basketball knowledge back to the hardwood as a Senior Coaching Advisor.

The announcement was made early Monday morning by Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations, Koby Altman, who expressed his excitement about Price’s new role: “Mark represents everything it means to be a Cavalier — excellence, integrity, and a deep love for the game. His leadership and insight will be invaluable as we continue to develop our young core and build for championship contention.”

Price, 60, was one of the most beloved and respected figures in Cavaliers history. A four-time NBA All-Star, he played nine seasons with Cleveland from 1986 to 1995, helping transform the team into a perennial playoff contender. Known for his deadly shooting, intelligent playmaking, and unmatched free-throw precision (90.4% career average), Price remains a fan favorite decades after his retirement.

“I’m beyond thrilled to be back in Cleveland,” said Price at the press conference held inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. “This city has always felt like home. I’m honored to help this next generation of Cavs players grow and thrive. There’s a lot of potential on this roster, and I’m here to do whatever I can to contribute to the team’s success.”

In his new position, Price will work closely with the Cavaliers’ coaching staff, led by Head Coach J.B. Bickerstaff. His primary focus will be player development — particularly mentoring the team’s guards and young shooters. Given Price’s reputation as one of the best shooting coaches in basketball, his addition is being hailed as a game-changer for the Cavaliers’ promising but inexperienced roster.

Former players and analysts across the league quickly reacted to the news. NBA Hall of Famer and longtime rival Reggie Miller tweeted, “Cavs just made a brilliant move. Mark Price was a nightmare to guard — now he’s going to make sure those young Cavs are nightmares for the rest of the league.”

This isn’t Price’s first foray into coaching. He previously served as an assistant with the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic and spent two seasons as head coach at UNC Charlotte. His return to the NBA, especially in Cleveland, feels like a full-circle moment — one that unites the franchise’s storied past with its promising future.

For Cavs fans, seeing Price back in the wine and gold, even in a suit, is a nostalgic reminder of one of the franchise’s golden eras — and a hopeful sign of more greatness to come.

Tickets for the upcoming season are already seeing a spike in demand, as fans prepare to welcome a legend home.

On Friday, March 21, the Cleveland Cavaliers lost their fourth consecutive game. After dominating the regular season for months, the Cavaliers have hit a patchy streak at arguably the most inopportune time.

When speaking to the media following Cleveland’s 112-123 loss to the Phoenix Suns, head coach Kenny Atkinson opted to remain positive.

“I turned positive. I thought our spirit and our energy, and our juice was better in the second half. I loved how our bench guys came in: Ty (Jerome), Sam Merrill and Dean (Wade). I thought (Javonte Green) gave us some good minutes,” Atkinson said. “I told them we have a great team. I loved how we fought in the second half. A little adversity, probably a good thing at this point in the season.”

“That’s part of my job: Understanding the context, where we are in the season, what we want to accomplish, knowing our guys,” Atkinson said. “Sometimes, it’s not that way, you get on them.”

While losing four straight games is far from ideal, there’s no reason to believe the Cavaliers are in crisis. Not yet, at least.

During his postgame news conference following the Cavaliers’ 119-123 loss to the Sacramento Kings on March 19, All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell admitted that he’s enjoying the Cavaliers’ recent slide.

“I’m trying to refrain from using the word happy,” Mitchell said. “I’m kind of a sicko, so I enjoy this. This is what makes the season fun — going through adversity.”

A tough stretch like this is essential for building resilience within the roster. Adversity is almost guaranteed during the postseason, whether that’s during one game or throughout a series. As such, Mitchell is right to embrace the Cavaliers’ difficult period, as there will certainly be more to come.