Isaiah Stewart was in the spotlight during a recent match against the Orlando Magic, showcasing his defensive skills when challenged by Magic coach Jamahl Mosley. The call for an isolation play against Stewart echoed around the court, as Cade Cunningham, Stewart’s teammate and the Pistons’ point guard, fired up enthusiasm from the sidelines.
Cunningham’s encouragement came as a response to Mosley’s comment questioning Stewart’s agility, which lit a competitive spark within Stewart. On the final play of the first half, with time running out, Stewart managed to deny Jalen Suggs a clean shot, effectively closing out the half and keeping the game closer for the Pistons.
This moment was indicative of a growing chemistry between teammates as they navigated through the ups and downs of the season. Cunningham, the Pistons’ leader and a former No. 1 draft pick, has been pivotal in guiding the team through challenges. Detroit’s season has seen improvement, now holding a competitive 19-18 record.
The current scenario stands in stark contrast to the previous season, which was riddled with obstacles. Last year, the Pistons faced a 28-game losing streak that raised serious doubts about the franchise’s future and Cunningham’s role within it. “While we were going through that, the rest of the league was making fun of us, disrespecting us,” Stewart recalled. There was a determined spirit among the players as they aimed to rise from such a low point.
For Cunningham, the struggles of the past season were compounded by a leg injury that limited his participation in games. Despite the setbacks, he took on the responsibility of being a vocal leader for his team, even when the losses piled up. This maturity has transitioned into this season, where he is demonstrating the capacity to lead through both words and actions.
Cunningham’s commitment to his teammates has not gone unnoticed. Pistons’ head coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised him for his willingness to shoulder the responsibility for the team’s performance, commenting that it is rare for players to embrace such roles sincerely.
At just 23 years old, Cunningham is aware of what is expected from someone in his position. He has openly embraced the idea of being “the guy” for the Pistons, acknowledging the pressure that comes with it. “It’s a lot of responsibility. It’s a lot of … people would call it pressure, but I have to deliver,” he stated.
His resolve to improve and lead is underscored by his desire to change the narrative surrounding the Pistons. “The way the city carries itself, the grit, all that stuff, it hits home for me,” he explained, expressing his dedication to turn the team’s fortunes around.
Recently, Cunningham solidified his role as a leader by stepping up in crucial moments, demonstrating skill and composure. In an early November game against Atlanta, he pivotal moments showcased his improved defensive abilities and playmaking, which have become the cornerstones of his game. “You see the strength of a person when they go through adversity,” said Trajan Langdon, the Pistons’ president of basketball operations, highlighting the fire Cunningham possesses.
Underneath his calm demeanor lies a fierce competitive spirit. He has embraced challenging moments, all while nurturing a supportive atmosphere for teammates, exemplifying what it means to be a leader. This dynamic has instilled confidence throughout the team, elevating their performance significantly compared to last year.
The Pistons now find themselves at an exciting juncture as they seek to reclaim their place in the NBA. with Cunningham leading the charge, the franchise aims to build a winning culture. Their recent resurgence has sparked optimism among fans, echoing the glory days when the Pistons were title contenders.
As they continue to navigate through the season, the emphasis will be on growth, teamwork, and the resolve to overcome challenges. The foundation being laid by Cade Cunningham and his fellow teammates could well be the beginning of a new era for the franchise— one that fans hope will bring them back into the playoff conversation for years to come.
