Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson has earned the prestigious title of Coach of the Year from the National Basketball Coaches Association. Taking over a team that reached the postseason's second round last year, Atkinson has propelled the Cavaliers to a remarkable 64-18 record, marking a significant 16-win improvement and the top seed in the Eastern Conference – a feat not achieved since the 2009-10 season and the first ever without LeBron James. Rick Carlisle, the NBCA president and head coach of the Indiana Pacers, praised Atkinson's innovative approach and respect among peers.

Other candidates for the award included J.B. Bickerstaff from the Detroit Pistons, Mark Daigneault of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Michael Malone from the Denver Nuggets, and Ime Udoka from the Houston Rockets. Bickerstaff led the Pistons to their first playoff appearance since 2019, while Daigneault's Thunder dominated the league with a 68-14 record, far surpassing expectations. Despite being fired near the season's end, Malone's past success with the Nuggets earned him votes, showcasing the competitive landscape of coaching in the NBA this year.