After a bizarre turn of events, it was confirmed on Saturday that Kenny Atkinson had decided to bail on his deal with the Charlotte Hornets to be the team's new head coach. Instead, the 55-year-old opted to remain with the Golden State Warriors as Steve Kerr's top assistant coach.
As it turns out, Atkinson's family played a major role in his sudden change of heart. This report comes via Will Kunkel of FOX Charlotte:
I’m told Kenny Atkinson changed his mind for family reasons. Kenny had not signed the contract. They did agree to the terms of the contract, though. The Hornets were waiting a few days to get the signed copy.
I’m told Kenny Atkinson changed his mind for family reasons.
Kenny had not signed the contract. They did agree to the terms of the contract, though.
The Hornets were waiting a few days to get the signed copy.— Will Kunkel (@WillKunkelFOX) June 18, 2022
No further details were provided about the particular situation Atkinson currently has with regard to his family, but the issue was clearly big enough for him to turn down the Hornets deal at the last minute. The fact that he reportedly already agreed in principle with Charlotte only for him to suddenly change his mind, makes this whole thing even stranger.
For their part, the Warriors will obviously welcome Atkinson back with open arms. After all, he's been a key part of coach Kerr's staff. The Hornets, on the other hand, aren't happy about this at all.
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