From bottom of the barrel, the worst team in the NBA, and other players around the league getting on social media to antagonize and humorize the team, the 2024 Detroit Pistons were the laughingstock of the league. But with a dramatic turn of events this past offseason, the Pistons have seen hope and glory throughout this year’s regular season, potentially seeing a playoff spot and a revived fanbase. Now the question on everyone’s mind in Detroit is what fueled the Pistons turnaround?
J.B. Bickerstaff was hired during July of last year in replacement of Monty Willimasn as the head coach. Free agents and off season moves such as acquiring Malik Beasley and Tobias Harris have influenced the younger players to be the best they can. Having these two vets of the league on our team has provided experience and knowledge for the younger less developed players. During the 2024 NBA Draft the Pistons picked Ron Holland with the 5th pick. After showing flashes of potential Holland has found his place on the team and is really fitting into the system.
Changing the culture around the team has created a new atmosphere of winning. The Pistons have revived the Bad Boy era of basketball. They’ve brought a new sense of domination to the court which hasn’t been seen in years. Grittiness, fighting to the end and team morale have been the priorities for Detroit this season which separates them from other teams whose players only care about themselves and their contracts. This season has seen a spark by many leaders on the team who have stepped up such as MVP candidate Cade Cunningham, Malik Beasly who has recently set the franchise record for most three pointers made, and Jalen Durren.
Like some of the other young athletes on the team, Ausuar Thompson who was selected 5th overall in the 2023 NBA draft has started to fit in after struggling to find his place on the team. Thompson has had multiple games where he has 3 or more steals and proceeds to dunk on the other end of the court with ease. His athleticism has shined bright and proved he isn’t going to be stuck in the shadow of his brother Amen Thompson of the Rockets.
Many changes have been made to alter the future in Detroit, and these have been the setting blocks for much more to come. As of now, the Pistons are set to take the court in April for the beginning of the NBA playoffs, where these same values of toughness are expected to shine bright. With the majority of the roster still being young in age, and not seeing their full potential yet, upcoming years will be filled with pure entertainment in the city of Detroit.
