NBA: Detroit Pistons Page

2008-11-25T14:44:00.001-05:00

So, we got spanked by the Timberwolves. Hopefully, the free swimsuit calendar giveaway on Friday will take some of the sting out of it...details here.

2008-10-30T14:34:00.001-04:00

Get out there and vote next Tuesday, November 4th, Piston fans!

2008-10-20T12:23:00.001-04:00

I saw this headline (Former Piston Corliss Williamson inducted) on this web page and I thought for a minute Williamson was indicted!

2008-09-22T15:20:00.002-04:00

I'm not too wild about the two sets of intros (i.e. ads) you have to go through on the Pistons official website. Yes, you can click to skip them, but still. I'd just like to have somewhere I can go in life that isn't plastered with that much advertising.

Staying Motivated

2008-06-30T12:35:00.003-04:00

The Pistons players practice in the offseason, so Pistons fans should do the same. This video will help you keep your cheering muscles active and ready for the next NBA season. Maybe you should buy some Tigers baseball tickets and go to a game while you're at it. Don't get lazy this summer!

No Kobe for sure

2007-11-20T10:59:00.000-05:00

According to freep.com, the Pistons are not in negotiations with Kobe, it's just rumors. That sucks as the Pistons have lost 3 of their last 5 games. I don't think he was trying to add insult to injury, but Chauncey Billups said that all the games were winnable - well then why weren't they won?!?! On the plus side, Cheikh Samb ended up stepping in last Friday when they played the Lakers, and though the Pistons still lost, Samb did show some promise. He's not quite ready though, and we need a big change now.

Nooooooo not Saunders still

2007-06-11T16:00:00.001-04:00

So they're still keeping Saunders, eh? After getting sand thrown in our faces again by the Cavaliers? Sigh. Guess I'd better get used to throwing stuff at the TV.

Pistons schooling Bulls

2007-05-10T16:12:00.000-04:00

We all remember the days of the great Chicago Bulls dynasty. These days it's the Pistons that are doing the schooling - tonight they will look for a 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Can they leave the Bulls in the dust? Probably.

2007-01-17T15:44:00.000-05:00

The Detroit Pistons have Chris Webber now. He's excited to be back home and playing for the team. Here's hoping he'll make the team better!

DETROIT'S STRANGE WEEK

2006-12-13T18:03:00.000-05:00

The Detroit Pistons sure had one strange week last week. They won their last two road games against Dallas and Orlando, but earlier last week they lost to two of the worst teams. What gives? Dallas and Orlando are both at the top of both conferences, so what's up with losing those easier games earlier last week. I guess anything is possible.

CHECK OUT CHAUNCEY'S BIG HEART

2006-12-06T21:16:00.000-05:00

Big-hearted Chauncey Billups and his wife have decided to start giving game tickets to Detroit youth groups. It's a way to reach out to underpriviledged kids and just one of the one of the latest outreach programs that the Detroit Pistons have undertaken. In addition to the ticket, each child will receive a t-shirt and an invitation to a skills clinic on the Palace court before the game.

PISTONS NARROWLY BEAT THE HEAT

2006-12-03T16:33:00.000-05:00

The Detroit Pistons' game against the Hiami Heat almost ended up a loss that would have ended their now 6 game winning streak. Defeating the defending NBA champs was little easier with Shaquille O'Neal out, but Detroit point guard, Chauncey Billups, agreed that it was the worst game they have played so far, but in the final seconds of the game, the victory was theirs. Hopefully, the Piston's can learn from their mistakes in this game.

Rasheed Wallace chips in

2006-11-04T20:57:00.000-05:00

Rasheed Wallace gave us 18 points and 9 rebounds, which, along with a tidy 27 points from Richard Hamilton and 20 from Chauncey Billups, put Detroit Pistons where we like to see them, in the win column. Final score was Pistons 101, Boston Celtics 88.

See, Rasheed, look what you can do if you can manage to not get thrown out of the game. People buy tickets to watch NBA players, not listen to them.

Detroit Pistons Had Top 5 Combo

2006-10-26T19:43:00.000-04:00

I love the Pistons, but I’m no basketball expert, and for sure I’m no statistician. So I am not about to explain the Lenovo +/- Stat. But what it stands for is how the points scored go up or down depending on different players being on the court or on the bench. The Lenovo Stat can rate an individual player, or combos of 2, 3, 4, or 5.

Last year, it turns out, the individual with the highest rating was Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat, at +127. The 2s, 3s, and 4s were all groups of Dallas Mavericks, and all the groups included Dirk Nowitzki and Josh Howard. But the most effective combination of five at +51 was this lineup of Detroit Pistons: Tayshaun Prince, Antonio McDyess, Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton, and Ben Wallace.

Losing Ben to the Chicago Bulls will be tough. But we’ve proved we know how teamwork works.

Holy S**t!!

2006-10-15T19:53:00.000-04:00

They did it! The Tigers are in the World Series!! Holy cow!

Way to go, guys. We Michiganders can use this happy news. Best of luck to ya! The whole town's rooting for you.

skipping work to do the right thing

2006-10-06T13:39:00.000-04:00

Open practive tomorrow starts at 10:30 at the Palace at Auburn Hills, one of my favorite venues. I should prolly go to work, but meh, its open practice. Rumor has it automotion will be there as well, which is nevAr a bad thing... But its not just about that, I want to see how Mohammed is moving as well as Richard Hamilton and Ronald Murray. I am always surprised by how many people show up, the mood is always very positive and people love to talk about the team (armchair coaches unite!).

up and coming

2006-10-02T19:38:00.000-04:00

During the upcoming season, the Pistons will be looking for more offense at center, and they will look to Nazr Mohammed to be that improvement. Despite comparisons with Ben Wallace, Mohammed is a different player and is expected to fill in an important gap left gaping last season – scoring in the post. Mohammed is also a strong rebounder, which will undoubtedly help the Pistons offensively. Last season was a heartbreaker, and left a void in the hearts of fans that the Pistons will now try to fill, with Mohammed’s help.

Better luck this time

2006-07-11T13:37:00.000-04:00

Like a lot of Detroit Pistons fans I was disappointed by the Playoff results in 2006. We were heavily outscored in Game 6 against Miami Heat in all but the last period, so unlike a lot of people around I am disinclined to berate the lack or purveyance of foul calls by refs. I have a good feeling about our style of play for this season. Ben Wallace and Richard Hamilton have lots of different skills and strong drives. I can see a lot of points scored in their futures.

If my nerves could calm down a bit I’d be alright.

2006-05-29T15:29:00.000-04:00

The Detroit pistons are going to attempt to even out the series tonight in game four of the Eastern Conference Finals in Miami. All I am going to say is I can’t wait to see Tayshaun Prince and Ben Wallace get fired up tonight and take back the series on Miami’s home court. I am so nervous. Go Pistons!

We’re gonna bury Miami

2006-05-24T17:16:00.000-04:00

The Detroit Pistons proved victorious over the Cleveland Cavaliers. We had to go to game seven but we did it. The victory was due in great part to expert play by Ben Wallace, Rasheed Wallace, Tayshaun Prince and Richard Hamilton. It was a grueling series and there were a lot of moments at which I was afraid we were not going to make it. I am glad I didn’t give up on the Pistons when they lost three in a row. Now, let’s kick some Miami butt! Go Pistons!

Hats off to Ben Wallace

2006-05-08T17:05:00.000-04:00

The Detroit Pistons won their series over the Milwaukee Bucks in five games and just won their first game over the Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James. Ben Wallace of the Pistons has been names Defensive Player of the Year by the NBA. I think that Chauncey Billups deserves some big-time recognition for his playoff performance thus far. He is leading the team in assists and is one of our better scorers. Go Pistons!

Can you feel it?

2006-04-13T12:30:00.000-04:00

I watched the Detroit Pistons pummel the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. It was quite a game. The star of the show was Ben Wallace who brought down 22 rebounds. He and Tayshaun Prince are the biggest reasons we have maintained our number one spot in the NBA. I am definitely going to get playoff tickets this year because it is going to be an intense post-season! I can feel a championship coming on!

Pistons are going to beat up the competition!

2006-03-19T16:09:00.000-05:00

The Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks are all tied for number one record in the NBA. This Detroit team is undeniably the best however, because we have Rasheed Wallace, Ben Wallace, Tayshaun Prince and Chauncey Billups. They are a powerhouse and no matter who ends the season in the top spot, we will have no trouble eliminating the competition in the playoffs. Don’t you think?

The Kings of the NBA

2006-02-10T18:32:00.000-05:00

Flip Saunders, coach of the Detroit Pistons, has been chosen to go to the All-Star game. A lot of fans, myself included, feel that ALL five of the Pistons starters should be going as well. There are few players in the league that can compare to Chauncey Billups, Tayshaun Prince, Rasheed Wallace, Ben Wallace and Richard Hamilton.

No More Delays

2005-06-15T12:47:00.000-04:00

I don’t know what it is about the Pistons that make them wait till the last minute to actually show up and play. It is like there forget they are in the NBA finals for the first two games and all of a sudden wake up and realize that they are the defending NBA Champions. The Detroit Pistons did the same thing when they played in the Eastern Conference Championship against the Miami Heat. My blood pressure can’t take many more series like these.

The series is now at 2-1 in favor of the Spurs.

Pistons at Miami Game 3

2005-05-31T19:01:00.000-04:00

- from the official site of the Detroit Pistons

Detroit allowed 100 points for just the second time this postseason during its 113-103 Game 3 loss to Miami, who takes a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference finals. The physical game featured 62 fouls and 97 free throws. Miami went 38-of-54 at the line while Detroit was 28-of-43. Richard Hamilton scored 33 points and Billups and Tayshaun Prince added 18 apiece for Detroit, which hosts Game Four on Tuesday (8:00 p.m., TNT).

Pistons or Heat?

2005-05-26T16:00:00.000-04:00

Right now looking at the series, it could go either way. The series is tied up 1-1, with Miami taking the second win with a score of 92-86. Both of these teams are unbelievable with differing greatness on each side of the spectrum.

Historically, the Pistons have whipped up on the Heat in the last 11 of 14 games between the two teams. In the regular season, the Pistons were able to take down the Heat 2 out of 3 games. One of these wins was against a Shaq-less Heat and the other win was only by 1 point (Nov. 26: 78-77).

But, the Pistons do know how to apply the pressure needed to take down Wade. In the Apr. 10th win, Wade was kept to a season-low scoring game and was only able to land 5 points before being fouled out. Wade has been keeping to a 25 ppg average throughout the Playoff series.

So, who is it going to be?

Detroit Ending Series Soon

2005-05-19T20:36:00.000-04:00

Right now, we’re looking at a 3-2 lead over the Pacers. Reggie Miller isn’t too happy about the outcome of last game. Ben Wallace put in 19 points while Carlos Arroyo bumped in for 18 minutes to add six assists.

"We're coming out with a lot of energy at the start, getting stops from the start, and not waiting until we find ourselves in a hole where we need stops. We're getting stops early in the game and forcing teams to go against our set defense. Anytime we can force teams to play against our set defense, I like our chances."
- Ben Wallace

All five starters ended the game with double digits. As always, Detroit is hitting with full force from all sides. I think we can take them out in Game 5.

Pistons home cooking?

2005-05-17T20:27:00.000-04:00

- from FOXSports.com

Detroit's Larry Brown, Rasheed Wallace, Carlos Arroyo, Chauncey Billups and Lindsey Hunter look to the comforts of home for Game 5 against Indiana. The Eastern Conference semifinals series is tied at 2-2.

On to Game 4

2005-05-15T14:21:00.000-04:00

After beginning brightly, the Detroit Pistons have been taken two times over. In Game 1, Ben Wallace came out like a storm, gaining 21 points, 15 rebounds and four steals. Richard Hamilton led in points by putting in 28.

Game 2 had a light turnaround at home base. Jeff Foster, who added 14 points from the bench, was on fire grabbing 20 rebounds (10 offensively).

In Game 3, it was all up in the air. Anything could have happened, but what didn’t happen was a win. Detroit lost by the slight deficit of 5 points. Reggie Miller scored six clutch points with only 1:21 left on the clock.

On to Game 4!!!

Round 2, Fight!

2005-05-06T16:36:00.000-04:00

With such a well-rounded team, was there ever a doubt we could take down the 76ers? The Pistons have secured the series with a 88-78 victory in Game 5. The Pistons are too stacked with different great players while the Sixers were unbelievably dependent on Allen Iverson; so dependent that about 55 percent of points scored throughout the Sixers Playoff series were made by none other than Iverson.

When I was watching the game, Iverson had been leading the team up to the half scoring approximately 27 points with the score being around 60-61. After coming down wrong on his ankle, the team almost lost it wondering what the hell they were going to do without him. He ended the game being the leading scorer with 34 points.

Pistons 'motor' to 3-1 lead

2005-05-02T18:06:00.000-04:00

- from FOXSports.com

Detroit's Larry Brown, Rip Hamilton, Ben Wallace, Rasheed Wallace and Antonio McDyess speak on their 97-92 OT win over Philadelphia in Game 4. The series shifts back to the Motor City with the Pistons leading the Sixers three games to one.

Pistons take Victory

2005-04-26T17:57:00.000-04:00

After being a little slow at first, the Detroit Pistons gained the lead and did not give it up until winning game 1 of the series against the Philadelphia 76ers. The Pistons played hard and led with rebounding and scoring.

Everyone on the team seemed to be getting Playoff fever. McDyess came off the bench and gave an uplifting surge at the beginning of the second to get the Pistons back on track.

"It feels good. I didn't know what to expect when I first came in. I was kind of mad, I was over there pouting when they were up 16. But I needed to calm down. When I stepped on the floor, I just felt like I needed to provide the energy, I needed to provide the scoring or whatever it takes to get this team back into it. I felt like I did that."
- Antonio McDyess

Pistons take down Cavaliers

2005-04-19T20:22:00.000-04:00

In a very close game, the Pistons came over the top with a 90-87 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was an unbelievable battle, with the Cavs maintaining the lead for most of the game. The Cavs were up 52-40 going into the half.

Tayshaun Prince stepped up though and made sure to keep JeBron James from going overboard. With excessive ‘d’ put on him, James was held to only 37 points.

"They always have defended me well. Tayshaun does a great job. It is hard to get close to the hole because they help each other out very well."
- LeBron James

This was an important game because it keeps the Cavaliers about a one-half game under the New Jersey Nets.

"I'm proud that we competed because Philadelphia and New Jersey were affected by this game."
- Pistons coach Larry Brown

Detroit/ Chicago Preview

2005-04-17T19:42:00.000-04:00

- from FOXSports.com

Detroit has won and covered six straight with Sunday's 80-72 win at Miami.

The Pistons have scored the spread win in seven of the last 10 in this series.

Detroit has gone over in four of its last five overall and in six of its last nine versus the Bulls.

Chicago has won 12 of its last 13 and is on a 10-2-1 spread run after Saturday's 110-97 home win and cover over the Raptors.

The Bulls have failed to cash the Vegas ticket in four straight at home versus Detroit.

Chicago has stayed under just once in its last nine games overall.

8 Games

2005-04-14T20:07:00.000-04:00

Now the Pistons are starting to make it look easy. Detroit has been proud to have their team rack up an 8-game winning streak. After clinching the central division, Boston is left as the only team in the Eastern Conference to not clinch the division. Detroit is making a late effort to hold on to the Championship that was achieved by them in 2004.

In their latest game, Detroit took out the Orlando Magic with a score of 103-94. No starter stayed in the game longer than 30 minutes. Coach Larry Hamilton was making sure to let the bench take care of the work. Both Carlos Arroyo and Tayshaun Prince added in 14 points apiece.

Shaq sitting Out

2005-04-10T15:23:00.000-04:00

In the upcoming game against the Detroit Pistons Shaq will not participate. This is the third game that the superstar will sit out due to a viral infection in his stomach. This hasn’t held too much of an affect on the team in the last two games, with one win against the Bulls and a loss against the Grizzlies. But, will this last.

Shaq has lost approximately 10-15 pounds and the team is being very careful not to play him too soon.

"If we were in a situation where in this game, we could win it and that would assure us the best record, Shaq wouldn't play. He's not ready to go."
- Heat coach Stan Van Gundy

Flip Saunders

2005-04-07T17:45:00.000-04:00

- from FOXSports.com

The Cavaliers may not be the only team eyeing former Timberwolves coach Flip Saunders. Plain Dealer columnist Roger Brown writes that the Pistons could pursue Saunders if Larry Brown retires.

Brown Back, Pistons Show It

2005-04-02T20:42:00.000-05:00

After Larry Brown’s triumphant return to the sideline, the Pistons pick up as if he were never gone. Larry Brown has missed quite a few games on account of surgery recently to his hips. In the presence of Brown, the Pistons rallied for a victory over the over the Clippers 97-84.

"It was great. I think we were all on the same page. It was good to see him at each timeout, coaching, being the leader of our team."
- Richard Hamilton

Detroit is currently #2 in the Eastern Conference and they have finally clinched their Playoff berth, which is well deserved. The team has been doing fairly well in the absence of Larry Brown, but it is good to have a true leader back.

Pistons Still Strong through Loss

2005-03-29T17:47:00.000-05:00

As of now, a lot more has been established in the Western Conference as opposed to the Eastern. The Pistons at 47-27 are still holding strong to their second position in the Playoff run. In their last 10 games, the Pistons have been 6-4.

In their last game against the Dallas Mavericks, the Pistons were put down 95-88. They fought pretty well in the first half, but the Mavericks kept a steady lead throughout the second half.

"It's a lot of hard work trying to get back into a game when you're down (that much). We were a couple of possessions away from taking control."
- Chauncey Billups

Pistons/Cavaliers Preview

2005-03-22T17:36:00.000-05:00

- from FOXSports.com

STANDINGS: Pistons - 1st place, Central Division. Cavaliers - 2nd place, 7{ GB, Central Division.

PROBABLE STARTERS: Pistons - F Prince, F Rasheed Wallace, C Ben Wallace, G Hamilton, G Billups. Cavaliers - F Ira Newble, F Gooden, C Zydrunas Ilgauskas, G James, G Eric Snow.

TEAM LEADERS: Pistons - Hamilton, 19.3 ppg; Ben Wallace, 12.1 rpg; Billups, 6.1 apg. Cavaliers - James, 26.3 ppg and 7.4 apg; Gooden, 9.5 rpg.

SEASON SERIES: Tied, 1-1.

LAST MEETING: Dec. 16; Pistons, 81-69. At Auburn Hills, Mich., Hamilton scored 21 points, Billups had 16, Rasheed Wallace chipped in 13 and Ben Wallace added 10 and 15 rebounds, and the Pistons held the Cavs to their season-low point total.

ROAD/HOME RECORDS: Pistons - 17-16 on the road; Cavaliers - 24-9 at home.

INJURIES: Pistons - G Horace Jenkins (back); F Darvin Ham (knee). Cavaliers - F-C Scott Williams (knee); F Luke Jackson (back); G Dajuan Wagner (colitis).

Pistons Win in Overtime

2005-03-15T18:57:00.000-05:00

In a very close game, the Detroit Pistons came through on top in an overtime victory with a score of 114-108. Tayshaun Prince had a season-high scoring game of 31 points. Coach Larry Brown has been getting on Prince to be more assertive when it comes to the offensive side of the spectrum. Apparently, this has been working out just fine.

"We've just been doing a good job sharing the basketball. The guys have been doing a good job getting me in a rhythm where I can make some shots."
- Tayshaun Prince

Larry Brown has been out during the last few games. He has just undergone hip surgery and will most likely coach from his bed at home.

Detroit-Utah Preview

2005-03-12T19:39:00.000-05:00

- from FOXSports.com

STANDINGS: Jazz - 5th place, 21{ GB, Northwest Division. Pistons - 1st place, Central Division.

PROBABLE STARTERS: Jazz - F Kirilenko, F Matt Harpring, C Curtis Borchardt, G McLeod, G Raja Bell. Pistons - F Prince, F Rasheed Wallace, C Ben Wallace, G Billups, G Richard Hamilton.

TEAM LEADERS: Jazz - Kirilenko, 15.3 ppg; Okur, 7.1 rpg; McLeod, 5.0 apg. Pistons - Hamilton, 19.5 ppg; B. Wallace, 12.1 rpg; Billups, 6.1 apg.

SEASON SERIES: Jazz, 1-0.

LAST MEETING: Nov. 13; Jazz, 108-93. At Salt Lake City, Boozer scored 20 points and Okur added 19 in his first game against his former team as the Jazz shot nearly 59 percent. Hamilton scored 21 points for Detroit.

ROAD/HOME RECORDS: Jazz - 7-23 on the road; Pistons - 21-7 at home.

INJURIES: Jazz - F Boozer (foot); G Raul Lopez (knee). Pistons - G Horace Jenkins (back); G Carlos Delfino (knee).

Detroit Messed Up

2005-03-06T18:54:00.000-05:00

In their most recent game, the Detroit Pistons took a beating from the Sacramento Kings. The Kings needed this win on account of having three straight losses due to one of the craziest trades up to date.

If you haven’t heard yet, Chris Webber was recently traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal that many people never expected to see. This put a damper on the team, but newly acquired Kenny Thomas was given a chance to prove himself. Thomas, being one out of six players involved in the trade, scored 15 points in the second half to begin the showcase of his skills.

On the Pistons side, Rasheed Wallace gave his typical presence with scoring 19 points, but this was not enough to make a true impact. This makes two losses after an eight game winning streak.

Pistons take down the Warriors

2005-02-28T19:37:00.000-05:00

In a very close game, the Detroit Pistons took the victory in the last few moments of the game. This being their season high seventh consecutive victory, the Pistons have really been rocking it out the last few weeks. The Pistons ended the game with a score of 94-88.

Up to the half, the Warriors had the lead. Even by the fourth quarter, the Pistons seemed to be slacking but quickly upped the ante.

"We had a stretch in the fourth where we missed some shots. They off to a good run to start the fourth but that's our type of game with two minutes left and a two or three point game."
- Tayshaun Prince

High scorers:
• Tayshaun Prince : 23 points, essential turnover with seconds left
• Jason Richardson : 25 points, lost the ball when he needed it with 14 seconds left
• Rasheed Wallace : 17 points

Pistons take out the Wizards

2005-02-14T18:12:00.000-05:00

In their last game, Chauncey Billups presented an unmistakable force in taking down the Wizards. With 14 scored of 21 in only the first half, Billups led the Wizards to a final score of 107-86. Apparently, Billups is a curse for the Wizards. In his season-high score of 32 points, he led Detroit to victory over Washington and even sunk the game winning basket.

"We're comfortable out there right now, both offensively and defensively. They've got some great players but we're playing the way we do, and that makes us tough to beat."
- Chauncey Billups

Detroit was playing a great game. The shooting average for the team was well around 53 percent. It seemed like the Pistons just couldn’t miss a basket.

"We were just great. Thirty-three assists on 43 (actually 42) field goals. You move the ball like that and you'll do pretty good."
- Detroit coach Larry Brown

Detroit’s Coming Up

2005-01-30T16:51:00.000-05:00

Currently, Detroit is fifth in the Eastern Conference; trailing to Cleveland in the Central division by one loss. In their most recent game, the Pistons took out the New York Knicks in a monstrous win (91-61).

The Pistons defense was playing strong and kept the Knicks from scoring. In the third quarter, the Knicks barely scored at all. New York’s shooting game was only at about 36 percent; a season low.

This game, fun-loving as it is, displayed a variety of different injuries. Trent Ariza, a New York rookie, had to leave the game due to a hurt ankle and did not come back in. On Detroit’s side, Carlos Arroyo, a recent addition to the team, had to leave the court due to a fractured nose. He will be sitting out for at least the next two games. Even Referee Michael Smith was pelted by a ball in the face and had to leave the court.

Bulls Pistons Preview

2005-01-22T20:27:00.000-05:00

STANDINGS: Bulls - 4th place, 4{ GB, Central Division. Pistons - 2nd place, { GB, Central Division.

PROBABLE STARTERS: Bulls - F Luol Deng, F Davis, C Eddy Curry, G Hinrich, G Chris Duhon. Pistons - F Prince, F Rasheed Wallace, C Ben Wallace, G Richard Hamilton, G Billups.

TEAM LEADERS: Bulls - Hinrich, 15.9 ppg and 7.1 apg; Tyson Chandler, 9.3 rpg. Pistons - Hamilton, 20.4 ppg; Ben Wallace, 12.2 rpg; Billups, 6.1 apg.

SEASON SERIES: Tied, 1-1.

LAST MEETING: Jan. 3; Pistons, 87-80. At Chicago, Hamilton scored 20 of his 28 points in the second half, and Ben Wallace had 16 rebounds to lead Detroit. Gordon scored 27 points in a reserve role for Chicago, and Hinrich added 19.

Pistons Stop Bulls in Tracks

2005-01-04T13:38:00.000-05:00

The Bulls had tried to start a win streak after beating Orlando a couple of days ago, but the Pistons weren't going to let that happen on there clock. And in doing so the Pistons proved why they are the defending champs and how champions close out games.

Hamilton had 28 points and Ben Wallace had 16 rebounds to help propel the Detroit Pistons to a 87-80 victory over the Bulls in Chi-town.

Pistons Fall To Bulls

2004-12-23T15:10:00.000-05:00

from the official site of the Detroit Pistons

The Pistons lost their second straight home game, falling 89-82 to the Chicago Bulls at The Palace on Wednesday night. The loss ended a nine-game winning streak against the Bulls. Chauncey Billups scored a game-high 32 points, but Chicago's bench played a factor as it outscored the Pistons' reserves 53-8. Detroit was held to 35.6% (31-87 FG) from the field while the Bulls shot 47.1% (33-70 FG). Detroit travels to take on the Indiana Pacers at Conseco Fieldhouse on Christmas day (12:30 p.m., FSN Detroit).

Pistons Work Overtime

2004-12-09T15:28:00.000-05:00

from NBA.com

The Pistons defeated the Toronto Raptors 90-86 in overtime on Wednesday night at The Palace. Toronto used a 15-0 run during the fourth quarter to get back in the game, but Richard Hamilton scored six of his 19 points in overtime to outlast the Raptors. Wednesday night's game marked Larry Brown's 2,000th professional game, combining the NBA with the ABA, and his 100th regular-season game with the Pistons. Detroit has now won three in a row and will look to make it four in a row vs. the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, December 10 at The Palace (8 p.m. on WB20 Detroit

Ben Wallace Suspended for Six Games

2004-12-01T13:29:00.000-05:00

from NBA.com

The following suspensions were announced today by NBA Commissioner David Stern, resulting from the events during the Indiana Pacers at Detroit Pistons game on November 19.

Pacers forward Ron Artest has been suspended for the remainder of the season.

Indiana guard Stephen Jackson has been suspended for 30 games.

Pacers forward Jermaine O’Neal has been suspended for 25 games.

Indiana guard Anthony Johnson has been suspended for five games.

Detroit forward/center Ben Wallace has been suspended for six games.

Pistons forwards Elden Campbell and Derrick Coleman and guard Chauncey Billups have each been suspended for one game for leaving the bench during an on-court altercation.

Indiana guard Reggie Miller has been suspended for one game for leaving the bench during an on-court altercation.

In announcing today’s actions Commissioner David Stern issued the following statement:

“The penalties issued today deal only with one aspect of this incident – that of player misconduct. The actions of the players involved wildly exceeded the professionalism and self-control that should fairly be expected from NBA players. We must affirm that the NBA will strive to exemplify the best that can be offered by professional sports, and not allow our sport to be debased by what seem to be declining expectations for behavior of fans and athletes alike.

“There are other issues that the NBA must urgently focus on at this time. First, we must redefine the bounds of acceptable conduct for fans attending our games and resolve to permanently exclude those who overstep those bounds. Participants in and around the court must be assured complete protection from unacceptable fan behavior. Second, we must re-examine the adequacy of our current security procedures in Detroit and our other 28 arenas. The actions at Friday’s game, though unprecedented, must now be factored into all efforts to guarantee the well-being of our fans. Third, we must develop and implement new NBA rules to assure that the unavoidable confrontations likely to occur in the heat of competition are not allowed to escalate to the level we witnessed on Friday even prior to the egregious behavior by individuals in the stands.”

Detriot "Brawl" City

2004-11-20T17:34:00.000-05:00

from NBA.com

NBA Commissioner David Stern issued the following statement today:

“The events at last night’s game were shocking, repulsive and inexcusable --- a humiliation for everyone associated with the NBA. This demonstrates why our players must not enter the stands whatever the provocation or poisonous behavior of people attending the games. Our investigation is ongoing and I expect it to be completed by tomorrow evening.

The NBA has taken the following actions, effective immediately:

Indiana players Ron Artest, Stephen Jackson and Jermaine O’Neal are suspended indefinitely, the length to be determined upon completion of the investigation.

Detroit player Ben Wallace is suspended indefinitely, the length to be determined upon completion of the investigation.

Review of rules and procedures relating to altercations and security have been undertaken so that fans can continue to attend our games unthreatened by events such as the ones that occurred last night.”

Nuggets and Jazz Await

2004-11-14T20:01:00.000-05:00

by Richard Hamilton, G/F -- Detroit Pistons

Even though we're 3-1 right now, we still we have a ways to go, including myself. We're not at our peak yet. We're just starting to get back into the motion of things. Right now, it's all about getting familiar back with the offense, getting our rhythm back with our teammates. Plus, teams are coming at us a lot harder, since we're the champions. We've got to know how to match that intensity night in and night out. So, that's been a new challenge for us.

Even though Coach Brown is sidelined as he recovers from hip surgery, he still very involved in the day-to-day operation of the team. He calls the assistants every day going over everything. Our assistants have done a good job communicating with us and have us well prepared for each practice and game.

Very sad news struck the team the other day when we heard that Ben lost his brother to brain cancer. All of our thoughts and prayers are with Ben and his family as they go through this very difficult time. It's really hit everyone in the organization hard. Ben is the captain of our team and everyone knows he's a tough guy. He actually played in our last game after he heard the news. It has to be so difficult to lose a family member and then still go out and play.

Right now, we're preparing for our game against the Nuggets tonight in Denver. They're a really talented team despite their record. I think they're still trying to find out how to play with each other and just need a little time to get in sync. They're definitely dangerous. Our road swing continues to Salt Lake on Saturday to play the Jazz, who are looking very good on both ends of the floor. They play well together and have added several new players to their mix. Andrei Kirilenko is having another All-Star season and is one of the most exciting players to watch. He is so long. He can play a lot of different positions. I always enjoy playing in Salt Lake because the fans are really passionate.

First things first, though. We need to take care of business in Denver.

Pistons Back, and Maybe Better, After Winning Title

2004-11-01T13:59:00.000-05:00

From ESPN.com, by the Associated Press

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chauncey Billups couldn't stop a grin from slowly spreading across his face.

Could the defending NBA champion Detroit Pistons be even better this season?

You bet.

With a true team, the Pistons made it look easy, stunning the basketball world by knocking off the dysfunctional star-studded Los Angeles Lakers to win it all in five games.

The Pistons may be in even better shape for a title run this season with a starting lineup that features five players in, or entering, the prime of their careers and a bench bolstered by savvy offseason acquisitions.

"I'm excited," said Billups, the Finals MVP. "I'll take our chances."

Former Pistons star Joe Dumars, now Detroit's president of basketball operations, assembled a championship team with a bunch of castoffs. Now, Dumars might have added another key player that other teams didn't want.

After staying up late to watch Antonio McDyess play about 25 games toward the end of last season for the Phoenix Suns, Dumars signed the former All-Star and Olympian to a $23 million, four-year deal to take the spot of Mehmet Okur, who signed a free-agent deal with Utah.

The power forward has averaged 16.7 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks during his eight-year career, but has been plagued by injuries the past three years.

With jaw-dropping dunks and blocks in practice, McDyess looks healthy.

"Dyess looks like the old Dyess to me," forward Rasheed Wallace said. "He looks like a good addition."

Though center Ben Wallace and coach Larry Brown have added an NBA championship to their resume for the first time, they are not approaching the challenge of winning a title again the same way.

"They say it's hard to repeat, but I think the first one is tougher," said Wallace, a two-time All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year.

Brown, Detroit's perfectionist coach, is one of many who say repeating is harder than winning a championship the first time.

"We can't get complacent and we can't forget how we won the first one by playing together," Brown said. "I think a second championship is more difficult because everybody is going to be shooting at us."

Detroit's entire starting lineup of players 30 or younger is back: Ben Wallace, Billups, Richard Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace and Tayshaun Prince.

The Pistons lost three top reserves -- Okur, Corliss Williamson and Mike James -- and added McDyess, Derrick Coleman, Carlos Delfino and Ronald Dupree. They also re-signed veteran reserves Lindsey Hunter and Darvin Ham, and brought back Elden Campbell.

With such a stacked lineup, Darko Milicic likely will spend another season watching from the bench, just as the Pistons figured he would when they drafted him No. 2 overall in 2003.

"We're deep, talented and big," Dumars said. "We have experience and we're battle-tested. Those are great traits to go into the season with. The least of my concerns are about us getting arrogant, cocky or overconfident."

Brown will help make sure of that.

The Hall of Fame coach filled a void in his career with his first NBA title last season, but he's driving the players just as hard as he did a year ago. Many of his practices during training camp stretched to three hours and included the detail-oriented drills Brown is known for, and even preseason games made him grumpy.

"I haven't been real happy," Brown said. "We've been real careless in practice and sloppy in games."

Soon after beating the Lakers, the Pistons said they would not have won the title without Rasheed Wallace.

He was acquired, with an expiring contract, from Atlanta in a three-team deal just before the trading deadline for reserves and two No. 1 picks. Adding him gave Detroit a swagger it lacked, another option on offense and made a great defense one of the best in league history.

The Pistons made re-signing Rasheed Wallace their top priority, and they did with a $57 million, five-year contract.

The Pistons are convinced they will be even better overall this season, especially on defense -- where it might be tough to improve. Last season, Detroit and San Antonio allowed 84.3 points per game, the third-lowest scoring average since the league began using a shot clock during the 1954-55 season.

The Pistons set league records by holding 11 opponents -- including five straight -- under 70 points, and 36 straight opponents to less than 100.

"I think we're a lot more athletic and bigger than we were last year and that should make us a better defensive team," Billups said.

Welcome!

2004-08-19T17:37:00.000-04:00

Thanks for visiting my new Pistons page. I'll have more content shortly, so don't wander too far!