The Detroit Pistons have been the talk of the NBA this season, and for all the right reasons. After a disappointing 2020-2021 campaign where they only managed to win 14 games, the Pistons have completely turned things around this year. But the biggest headline of their resurgence? Cade Cunningham’s meteoric rise to stardom.
In just his fourth year in the league, Cunningham has not only taken over the reins of the Pistons’ offense, but he has also become the team’s undisputed centerpiece. With an average of 25.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game over 64 games, Cunningham has been nothing short of sensational.
His talent and potential were evident even before he stepped foot on an NBA court. The 20-year-old was the number one overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft, and he has lived up to the hype and expectations surrounding him. But what makes Cunningham’s rise even more impressive is the fact that he has done it all while playing for a team that was not expected to do much this season.
The Pistons were not considered serious contenders for the playoffs at the start of the season. But with Cunningham leading the way, they have defied all odds and are currently sitting in the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference, just one game behind the Charlotte Hornets for the final play-in tournament spot.
Cunningham’s impact on the court goes beyond just his numbers. He has shown maturity and leadership beyond his years, taking on the responsibility of being the team’s leader and guiding them through the ups and downs of a long and grueling NBA season.
But despite his impressive performances and undeniable impact on the Pistons, there are some who believe that Cunningham is not getting the recognition he deserves. And one of those voices is that of Pistons head coach Dwane Casey.
Casey recently called out ESPN for their lack of coverage and respect towards Cunningham and the Pistons. In an interview with ESPN’s Jackie MacMullan, Casey said, “I don’t understand why we’re not on national TV. I don’t understand why Cade is not on national TV. He’s one of the best young players in the league.”
And Casey has a point. Despite being one of the top rookies this season, Cunningham has only appeared on national TV a handful of times. And with the Pistons’ recent surge and Cunningham’s impressive performances, it’s about time that changed.
The NBA is a star-driven league, and Cunningham has all the makings of a future superstar. He has the size, skill, and basketball IQ to become one of the best players in the league. And with his work ethic and determination, there’s no doubt that he will continue to improve and reach even greater heights in the years to come.
But for that to happen, the league and its media partners need to give Cunningham and the Pistons the recognition they deserve. It’s time for ESPN to ditch their obsession with the Los Angeles Lakers and start showcasing the future of the NBA in Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons.
The Pistons may not have the star power or the glitz and glamour of other teams, but they have a young and talented core that is hungry to prove themselves. And with Cunningham leading the way, they have the potential to become a force to be reckoned with in the near future.
So, as the Pistons continue to make their push for the playoffs, it’s time for the NBA and its media partners to take notice and give Cunningham and the Pistons the spotlight they deserve. It’s time for the league to embrace the rise of Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons and showcase them to the world. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned this season, it’s that you should never underestimate the heart of a champion.
