Johnnie Bryant hired as Cavs associate head coach

Bryant will be joining Kenny Atkinson’s rapidly growing staff.

After spending four seasons as one of Tom Thibodeau’s staff with the New York Knicks, Johnnie Bryant agreed to join the Cleveland Cavaliers as an associate head coach according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Bryant was well respected amongst the players on the Knicks and someone who seemed to make strong connections.

After interviewing with the Cavaliers for the head coaching spot, the Cavaliers decided to go with former Brooklyn Nets’ head coach Kenny Atkinson. Now, Bryant joins the staff as Atkinson’s right-hand man.

Bryant was still under contract with the Knicks and will be making a lateral move to join the high ranks of Atkinson’s staff.

Another notable factor is that Bryant holds a close relationship with recently extended Cavaliers superstar Donovan Mitchell. Their relationship dates back to their time with the Utah Jazz from 2017-22.

Bryant was on the Utah staff dating back to his time as a player development assistant in 2012. Bryant was on the Jazz staff until 2022 when he was hired by the Knicks during their pursuit of Mitchell.

Atkinson is quickly assembling a quality staff. With Bryant now bringing experience to the position, he now joins recently hired assistant Jordan Ott and DeMarre Carroll.