Before making a name for himself in the world of professional basketball, he was already showing promise on the court during his college years. He played college basketball at the University of Richmond, where his skills truly began to shine. In 1988, he led his team to an impressive Sweet Sixteen appearance in the NCAA Basketball Tournament—an early sign of the leadership that would define his career. After college, he transitioned into the professional arena, eventually becoming a former professional basketball player with a solid reputation.

As his career evolved, so did his role in the game. He stepped into coaching and took on the position of head coach for the Brooklyn Nets, where his experience and deep understanding of the sport were evident. Prior to that, from 2007 to 2008, he served as the Director of Player Development for the Houston Rockets, helping shape the next generation of talent—a role that suited his mentorship style perfectly.

Off the court, he values family deeply. His parents, Pauline and Neil Atkinson, raised him alongside four brothers—Mike, Steve, Tom, and Brian—creating a close-knit household full of support and competition. Today, he shares his life with his wife, Laura, and together they have two children, Annika and Anthony. Through every phase of life, whether as a player, a coach, or a family man, he’s remained grounded, letting his actions speak as loudly as any highlight reel. And through it all, the name continues to stand for dedication, leadership, and perseverance in the game of basketball.