After going through a difficult period with the Detroit Pistons, Cade Cunningham, the number 1 pick in the 2021 draft, is relaunching his playoff ambitions in the Motor City.
Popularized in 2012, the slogan “Detroit vs. Everybody” takes on new meaning as Cunningham establishes himself 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 suffered a staggering 192 losses, including a 28-game losing streak that tied the famous 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 enjoying real success with the Pistons enjoying a welcome return.
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“There’s a different satisfaction to knowing you’ve worked for something,” Cunningham recently told 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 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 important 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. It was the only time I was over .500. It would mean a lot to change that. This is a crucial step in our development as a championship contender. I focus on taking things one step at a time. We have the talent in this locker room to hit .500. just continue to work hard and stay committed to the process.
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For a player who loves a challenge, Cunningham’s history is one 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 to compete,” Cunningham said. “At first we didn’t have any hopes for an NCAA tournament, but we finally made it. There is a unique satisfaction in knowing that you are putting effort into achieving 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 Rookie of the Year. He underwent leg surgery in December 2022 after just 12 games in his sophomore season and had another tumultuous year with a head coaching change after a season of just 12 wins.
This season marked a new beginning with veteran coach Monty Williams at the helm. However, the Pistons suffered another setback with Williams’ departure after just 14 wins last season, highlighting 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 his teammates. When he gets better, they all get better – 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 is love everywhere I go in Detroit. » His connection to the city was strengthened when he signed a five-year contract extension this summer worth $224 million.
“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’m happy about that.
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Bickerstaff notes this deep relationship, stating, “Detroit has a love affair with Cade. He represents the city’s values through his courage and selflessness, and he earns respect through his work ethic.
After a rough 1-5 start to the season, the Pistons rallied, winning seven of their last nine games, including impressive victories against top teams.
“We are aiming for that breakthrough, with the goal of transforming ourselves into a competitive team that wins consistently,” Cunningham said. “Recently we had our first three-game winning streak in years. We are improving, but there are still many challenges ahead.
Bickerstaff highlights Cunningham’s leadership role, especially with the injury to starting point guard Jayden Ivey. “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 don’t care what the voters think. What matters is how I play on the field, 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 contesting in the playoffs. “It’s a pleasure to play against this team. We appreciate the victories and learn from the efforts required. The playoffs are the main goal this year; it is within our reach. Our goal is to make an impact in the playoffs this season – that’s what we’re fighting for,” he said.
