MIES (Switzerland) - The influence of international basketball continues to ripple through the NBA, and in Cleveland, it carries a clear FIBA imprint.
Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson, assistant coach with the French national team at the Pris 2024 Olympic Games, has highlighted the impact of Vincent Collet - France’s long-time head coach and a consultant with the Cavaliers since 2024.
Their connection is rooted in years of shared experience with the national team, and Atkinson is clear on the value Collet brings.
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"He adds a little FIBA mentality to our approach. He’s been invaluable to us these past two years he’s been with us."
Kenny Atkinson on Vincent Collet
"He's got a lot of championships in France. Obviously, I've had my experience with him with the French national team, we’ve been colleagues for a long time - really respect his opinion.
"He gives us diversity of thought, right? He's got a different way of looking at things and I really value that."
Collet, who guided France to silver at the Paris 2024 Olympics, will be on a one-month stint on the Cavaliers' bench from December 20, continuing his behind-the-scenes involvement with the Cleveland coaching staff.
Collet's decorated résumé in France and extensive international experience offer Cleveland a different perspective on the game - one shaped by adaptability, collective execution, and the tactical demands synonymous with FIBA basketball.
FIBA