After going through a difficult period with the Detroit Pistons, Cade Cunningham, the number 1 pick in the 2021 draft, is boosting playoff ambitions in the Motor City.
Popularized in 2012, the slogan “Detroit vs. Everybody” takes on new meaning as Cunningham stands as the beacon of Detroit Basketball, embodying the spirit of resilience in the face of adversity.
In his first three seasons, the young point guard faced a staggering 192 losses, including a 28-game losing streak that tied the notorious NBA record. His journey, punctuated by changes of team and technical staff, has never caused him to weaken. As a vocal leader and player showing All-Star potential, Cunningham is now tasting real success with the Pistons enjoying a welcome comeback.
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“There’s a different satisfaction knowing you’ve worked for something,” Cunningham recently expressed to Andscape. “I wouldn’t want to do it in any other city than Detroit. I think they deserve to have a winning team. I want to be a part of it.”
Cunningham’s efforts tonight could propel the Pistons to a .500 record (18-18) with a win against the Portland Trail Blazers. This milestone is particularly significant because the Pistons have not maintained a balanced win-loss record at any time since Cunningham’s arrival.
Reflecting on past seasons, Cunningham recalls, “Last season we were 2-1 to start, and then the losing streak started. That was the only time I was over .500. That It would mean a lot to change this. It’s a crucial step in our development as a championship contender. I’m focused on taking things one step at a time. We have the talent in this locker room to get to .500. just keep working hard and staying engaged in the process.”
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For a player who thrives on overcoming challenges, Cunningham’s tale is rich in competition. The Arlington, Texas, native was ranked No. 2 in ESPN’s Class of 2020 and showed off his skills at elite events, only to see those canceled due to the pandemic. Committing to Oklahoma State, he shined despite scholarship offers from prestigious programs like Kentucky and North Carolina, leading the Cowboys to the second round of the NCAA tournament.
“I love competing,” Cunningham said. “We didn’t have any NCAA tournament prospects at first, but we made it in the end. There’s a unique satisfaction in knowing you put in the effort to achieve something.”
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The Pistons selected Cunningham with the first overall pick after a disastrous 20-win season and, despite a respectable rookie campaign where he averaged 17.4 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.5 assists, he was overshadowed in the race for the Rookie of the Year title. He underwent leg surgery in December 2022 after just 12 games in his sophomore season and endured another tumultuous year with a change in head coach after a season of just 12 wins.
This season marked a new beginning with coaching veteran Monty Williams at the helm. However, the Pistons suffered another setback with Williams’ departure after just 14 wins last season, emphasizing the need for stability.
Now, with JB Bickerstaff installed as head coach, Cunningham benefits from a more organized approach. “We’re going to figure out how to make this work,” Bickerstaff told him, emphasizing the need for Cunningham to solidify his leadership role. “The growth we’ve seen comes from his ability to carry the team on and off the field. He elevates all of his teammates. When he improves, they all improve – an incredibly rare quality.”
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Cunningham’s connection to the city of Detroit has grown significantly since draft night, where his choice of signature sunglasses earned him the affection of local fans. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of Pistons fans, saying, “There’s love everywhere I go in Detroit.” His connection to the city was strengthened when he signed a five-year, $224 million contract extension this summer.
“The losing streak made me commit even more,” Cunningham revealed. “Being welcomed by this city and my family means everything to me. I really feel like it’s Detroit against everyone, and I’ve welcomed that.”
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Bickerstaff notes this deep relationship, stating, “Detroit has a love affair with Cade. He represents the city’s values with his courage and selflessness, and he earns respect through his work ethic.”
After a rough 1-5 start to the season, the Pistons have rallied, winning seven of their last nine games, including impressive victories against top teams.
“We are striving for this breakthrough, aiming to transform ourselves into a competitive team that wins consistently,” Cunningham said. “Recently we had our first three-game winning streak in years. We’re improving, but there are still a lot of challenges ahead.”
Bickerstaff highlights Cunningham’s leadership role, especially with starting point guard Jayden Ivey’s injury. “Cade’s leadership and confidence have been essential to our success,” he noted.
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As the Pistons aim for their first playoff appearance since 2019, Cunningham knows he has the ability to land an All-Star berth. Averaging 24.1 points, 9.5 assists and 6.7 rebounds, including a remarkable 40-point game this season, his talent is undeniable.
Although ESPN ranked him 13th among players under 25 and sixth among Eastern Conference leaders in recent All-Star voting, Cunningham remains focused: “To be an All-Star, I just have to keep going to do what I do. I feel like I have All-NBA talent, and I’m not concerned about the opinions of the voters. What matters is how I play on the court, night in and night out.
Bickerstaff believes few point guards have surpassed Cunningham this season, highlighting the young star’s significant contributions.
The excitement is palpable for Cunningham as he puts on a Pistons uniform, already energized by visions of contention in the playoffs. “This team is a pleasure to play against. We enjoy the wins and learn from the effort required. The playoffs are the main goal this year; it is within our reach. Our goal is to make an impact in the playoff series this season – this is what we are fighting for,” he said.
