Kenny Atkinson Receives Suffolk Hall of Fame Plaque at Madison Square Garden – Full Details
In a heartfelt and symbolic moment, Kenny Atkinson, a respected figure in the world of basketball, was officially honored with the Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame plaque at none other than Madison Square Garden—one of the most iconic arenas in sports history. The event, which took place prior to an NBA game, celebrated not only Atkinson’s outstanding achievements on the court and sidelines but also his deep-rooted connections to Long Island and the legacy he continues to build.
Atkinson, currently an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors, has enjoyed a long and impressive career in professional basketball. A native of Northport, Long Island, he played his high school ball at St. Anthony’s before taking his talents to the University of Richmond, where he made a name for himself as a scrappy, intelligent point guard. His journey from a small-town standout to a globally respected coach is a source of pride for the Suffolk County community.
The Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame, which was established in 1990, recognizes individuals from Suffolk County who have made significant contributions to sports at the local, national, or international levels. Atkinson was officially inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many in-person ceremonies and celebrations were delayed or scaled down. As a result, the presentation of his plaque at Madison Square Garden served as a long-overdue celebration of his accomplishments.
The presentation was a proud and emotional moment, attended by family, friends, and former teammates, as well as basketball fans who have followed Atkinson’s journey over the decades. The timing and location of the event were particularly meaningful: Madison Square Garden, affectionately known as “The Mecca of Basketball,” is not only home to the New York Knicks—where Atkinson once served as an assistant coach—but also a place where he spent countless hours during his formative years as a fan and a professional.
Atkinson’s coaching career has taken him around the world. He played professionally in Europe for several years before transitioning into coaching, where he made his mark with the Atlanta Hawks, the New York Knicks, and most notably, as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets. During his time in Brooklyn, Atkinson was widely praised for developing young talent and building a competitive culture, laying the groundwork for the team’s later success.
Speaking at the event, Atkinson expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reflected on his journey. “Being from Suffolk County has always been a big part of who I am,” he said. “To be honored like this, especially here at Madison Square Garden, means more than words can express. I’m thankful to the Hall of Fame committee, my family, my coaches, and everyone who’s been part of the ride.”
The ceremony also highlighted the importance of local support in shaping future stars. As a young athlete growing up in Suffolk County, Atkinson benefited from a strong community sports network and dedicated mentors. His story is an inspiration for aspiring athletes, showing how hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to the game can open doors to incredible opportunities.
In addition to his NBA duties, Atkinson remains connected to the Long Island basketball scene. He frequently visits his hometown and supports local programs that aim to give kids access to quality coaching and athletic development.
Kenny Atkinson’s plaque now joins those of other distinguished Suffolk County athletes and coaches, serving as a reminder of what’s possible when talent meets dedication. The event at Madison Square Garden was more than a recognition—it was a celebration of roots, resilience, and the enduring power of sports to u
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