DETROIT — Tim Hardaway Jr. had a night to remember on Friday, March 28, 2025, as he scored a season-high 32 points, leading the Detroit Pistons to a thrilling 133-122 victory over the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers. This win not only marked a significant achievement for the Pistons, securing their first winning season since 2016, but also ended a frustrating 12-game losing streak against a team that had dominated them in recent years.
The Pistons (42-32) showed their resilience as they played without their star guard Cade Cunningham, who missed his third consecutive game due to a left calf contusion. Despite this setback, Detroit managed to put together a remarkable team effort, with Dennis Schroder stepping up in Cunningham's absence, contributing 16 points and dishing out 10 assists.
Hardaway's performance was nothing short of spectacular. He started strong, scoring 13 points in the first quarter, helping the Pistons establish an early lead at 31-26. By halftime, Detroit maintained a slight edge, leading 63-58, with Hardaway already tallying 19 points. His ability to knock down shots, including seven three-pointers, was crucial in keeping the Cavaliers at bay.
The Cavaliers, who entered the game with a formidable 59-15 record, were led by Donovan Mitchell, who poured in 38 points, including 22 in the fourth quarter. Despite Mitchell's late-game heroics, the Pistons found a way to secure the win. After the Cavaliers cut the lead to just two points at 119-117 with a three-pointer from Mitchell, the Pistons responded with a decisive 12-1 run to put the game out of reach.
"Hell yeah!" exclaimed Hardaway in the locker room post-game, reflecting the joy and relief of breaking the losing streak against Cleveland. His performance earned him the team's "BTA" honors, and he celebrated with teammates who gathered around him to share in the moment.
Other key contributors for Detroit included Jalen Duren, who recorded a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, and Ausar Thompson, who added 18 points, 10 rebounds, and four blocks. The Pistons' depth was evident as seven players scored in double figures, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive even when key players are sidelined.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff, in his first season with the Pistons, has transformed the team’s fortunes significantly. Having tripled the win total from last season, Bickerstaff has guided Detroit to a historic achievement, making them the first team in NBA history to triple its win total in an 82-game season. His coaching style has instilled confidence in the players, as they have embraced the competitive spirit he encourages.
"The way we play is his style, brand of basketball and his attitude," Hardaway said of Bickerstaff. "He’s done an amazing job of giving guys that confidence, giving guys that ability to go out there and compete on both ends of the floor. We want to go to battle for him. We want to go to war for him, and I feel like that’s what makes him the coach of the year."
As the Pistons look ahead, they have eight regular-season games remaining and are on track to potentially reach 45 victories for the first time since the 2007-08 season, when they last won a playoff game. Their upcoming schedule includes a three-game road trip, starting with a matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where they will aim to continue their winning momentum.
Meanwhile, the Cavaliers, who have been a dominant force this season, will need to regroup quickly as they prepare to host the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite the loss, they remain on the brink of achieving their first 60-win season since 2009-10, and their ability to bounce back will be crucial in the final stretch of the season.
The Pistons' victory on Friday not only represents a milestone for the franchise but also showcases the potential of a team that is learning to win together. With the playoffs approaching, Detroit is determined to build on this success and make a mark in the postseason.
