DETROIT – The Detroit Pistons brought an end to their agonizing 28-game losing streak with a nail-biting 129-127 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Saturday night. Cade Cunningham was the standout performer for Detroit, notching 30 points and 12 assists, leading his team to their first win since October 28.
The Pistons’ victory halted a skid that equaled the NBA record set by the Philadelphia 76ers across the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons. They narrowly avoided setting a new record for the longest losing streak in the four major North American sports leagues, a distinction held by the Chicago Cardinals during World War II.
Cunningham, relieved and joyful, spoke about the team’s perseverance, emphasizing the collective effort and resilience. Jalen Duren contributed significantly with 18 points and 17 rebounds, while Kevin Knox II added 17 points.
Pascal Siakam spearheaded the Raptors’ challenge with a game-high 35 points, and Dennis Schroder provided ample support with 28 points. Toronto, playing without newly acquired players RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, felt the emotional impact of trading away OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn earlier in the day.
Detroit led 90-86 entering the fourth quarter in a tightly contested game. The Pistons extended their lead to 110-99, courtesy of back-to-back three-pointers by Cunningham and Jaden Ivey. However, Toronto mounted a late challenge, reducing the deficit to just seven points after a series of key plays by Scottie Barnes and Siakam.
In the final moments, Cunningham’s crucial jumpers and defensive stops against Siakam proved decisive. Siakam’s late three-pointer brought the Raptors close, but Detroit secured the win from the free-throw line, triggering jubilant celebrations among players and fans alike.
Pistons coach Monty Williams shared the team’s emotional response to the victory, a moment of relief and joy in the locker room.
The Raptors, who scored 83 points in the second half compared to 44 in the first, showed resilience but ultimately fell short. Coach Darko Rajakovic praised Siakam and Barnes for their second-half performances, acknowledging the need for more consistent play.
Upcoming Games
The Toronto Raptors look to rebound from this loss as they host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday night. The Detroit Pistons, buoyed by their long-awaited victory, will face the Houston Rockets on the same night, hoping to build on their newfound momentum.
