The Detroit Pistons defeated the Atlanta Hawks 148-143 on February 23, 2025, in what turned out to be one of the most exciting high-scoring games of the NBA season. With this victory, the Pistons secured their sixth consecutive win, marking their best streak of the season.
Leading the charge for Detroit was guard Cade Cunningham, who delivered a standout performance by scoring 38 points. He finished the game shooting 14-for-24 from the field, including making seven 3-pointers, along with contributing 12 assists and seven rebounds. This was Cunningham's 15th game of the season with over 30 points and the first time he achieved a double-double at the halftime break, with 29 points and 10 assists.
The match turned out to be thrilling as it witnessed five lead changes in the final moments. The game was tied 135-135 with just over two minutes left on the clock. A turning point occurred when Dennis Schroder made a pivotal three-point play, giving the Pistons a lead they would not relinquish. With 33 seconds left, Schroder’s free throw put Detroit up 142-140, and they sealed the win with two free throws from Malik Beasley shortly after.
On the Hawks' side, star point guard Trae Young matched Cunningham's scoring output, also putting up 38 points, complemented by 13 assists. Young has consistently been one of the top performers for the Hawks, as this latest effort marked his 17th game this season surpassing the 30-point mark.
Georges Niang was another standout for the Hawks off the bench, scoring 27 points and hitting seven 3-pointers, reflecting the strong offensive play from Atlanta. Despite their efforts, the Hawks could not overcome their defensive lapses, which cost them the game and contributed to their third consecutive loss, leaving them at ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings.
Detroit's shooting prowess was on display as they achieved their season-high by shooting 59.1% from the field and equaling their best game with 20 successful three-point attempts out of 40. The Pistons' effective shooting was underpinned by their strong performance during the first half, where they led 76-68 at halftime.
The victory is particularly significant for the Pistons, as it solidifies their position at sixth place within the Eastern Conference and brings them closer to securing their first playoff berth since 2019.
On the contrary, the Hawks, after losing this game, will aim to bounce back as they complete their three-game homestand with a matchup against the Miami Heat. The Pistons, meanwhile, turn their attention to the Los Angeles Clippers as they start their own four-game home stretch, hoping to maintain their winning momentum.
This exhilarating showdown on the court was not just about the clash of the players but also about solidifying positions and strategizing for the upcoming playoff race. Both teams have much to play for as the season heads toward its climax, and such nail-biting games set the stage for what promises to be thrilling playoff action.