The Detroit Pistons defeated the Phoenix Suns 109-107 in their first preseason game, overcoming a 19-point halftime deficit. Rookie Ebuka Okorie scored the game-winning basket, while the Suns struggled with free-throw conversion and turnovers.
The Detroit Pistons defeated the Phoenix Suns 109-107 in their first preseason game at Little Caesars Arena. Although Detroit trailed by 19 points at halftime due to poor defensive rebounding and ball security, the Pistons' bench unit dominated the second half. Rookie Ebuka Okorie scored the game-winning layup in the final seconds, capping a 24-5 run in the third quarter that erased the deficit. The Suns' starters built a strong lead, but their reserves struggled with turnovers and execution, allowing Detroit to capitalize on defensive stops and transition opportunities.
The Detroit Pistons defeated the Phoenix Suns 109-107 in their preseason opener at Little Caesars Arena on October 5, 2026. After falling behind by 19 points in the first half, Detroit’s bench unit dominated the second half, with rookie Ebuka Okorie scoring the game-winning layup with 5.8 seconds remaining. Star center Jalen Duren sat out entirely as the team ramps him up following his new contract, while Cade Cunningham played only the first half. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff emphasized that the game was about establishing team identity rather than the final score, noting that the Pistons struggled to meet their standards in the first 24 minutes despite the eventual victory.
Jalen Duren signed a five-year, $200 million extension with the Detroit Pistons, ending a months-long standoff. In his first public appearance since signing, Duren expressed relief and loyalty to the franchise while addressing the negative narrative surrounding his delayed agreement. The deal, finalized hours before the qualifying offer deadline, secures the All-Star center alongside Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson, though tensions over negotiation tactics and a removed weight clause remain a point of discussion.
Jalen Duren agreed to a five-year, $200 million fully guaranteed extension with the Detroit Pistons on October 1, 2026, approximately 90 minutes before the qualifying offer deadline. The deal resolves a months-long standoff following Duren's breakout 2025-26 season, where he averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds and earned All-NBA honors. Although eligible for a maximum contract worth up to $287 million, Duren accepted a below-max deal after a poor playoff performance and failed negotiations. The agreement secures the center's future in Detroit alongside Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson, allowing the Pistons to retain their core trio for the upcoming season.
Jalen Duren agreed to a five-year, $200 million contract extension with the Detroit Pistons on October 1, 2026, approximately 90 minutes before the qualifying offer deadline. The deal resolves a months-long standoff where Duren’s camp sought a full maximum contract, while the Pistons maintained their below-max offer. The agreement secures the center’s future in Detroit, with the team emphasizing his importance to their roster despite previous tensions over contract terms.
The Detroit Pistons began training camp without Jalen Duren, as the center and the team remain in a stalemate over a long-term contract. While Detroit has offered a five-year, $200 million deal, Duren’s representatives are seeking more. The center must decide by October 1 whether to accept a one-year qualifying offer or pursue unrestricted free agency. Meanwhile, LeBron James joined the Philadelphia 76ers, and Nikola Jokić confirmed he will re-sign with the Denver Nuggets.
Detroit Pistons president Trajan Langdon confirmed at media day that center Jalen Duren will play for the team this season, regardless of whether he signs a long-term deal or accepts a one-year qualifying offer. Langdon stated he has not spoken to Duren all summer but emphasized that the organization will support the player upon his return. The standoff centers on a five-year, $200 million offer from Detroit, which Duren’s representatives have rejected. The deadline for Duren to accept a one-year, $9.6 million qualifying offer is October 1. Teammates, including Cade Cunningham, dismissed concerns about team chemistry, noting that the negotiation is strictly between the front office and Duren’s agents. Paul Reed was highlighted as a strong backup option should the holdout continue into the season.
The Detroit Pistons have offered restricted free agent Jalen Duren a five-year, $200 million contract that includes a monthly weight clause, a move that has intensified tensions between the two sides. While the clause is reportedly an incentive rather than a voiding condition, Duren’s camp views it as disrespectful. With training camp opening next week and the October 1 deadline approaching, the standoff threatens to become a major storyline for the upcoming season.
The Detroit Pistons have increased their contract offer to center Jalen Duren to $200 million over five years, but no deal has been reached as the NBA season approaches. The stalemate reflects a strategic decision by front office head Trajan Langdon to prioritize long-term roster flexibility over immediate retention, despite Duren’s recent All-NBA performance.
The Detroit Pistons have secured a five-year, $155 million extension for forward Ausar Thompson, locking in a premier defender at a lower cost than his twin brother’s recent deal. This move precedes a stalled negotiation with center Jalen Duren, who is seeking over $200 million. Thompson’s contract, averaging $31 million annually, follows his All-NBA First Team selection and third-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting.
The Detroit Lions announced the appointment of Richard Haddad, currently the Detroit Pistons’ chief operating officer, as the team’s next President and CEO. Haddad will oversee football and business operations at Lions and Ford Field, report to owner Sheila Hamp, and begin in early September as Rod Wood retires from the role.
The Detroit Lions named Richard Haddad, previously the Pistons’ COO and chief legal officer, as their new president and CEO, replacing retiring Rod Wood. Haddad is a Michigan native and a 2022 Forty Under 40 honoree, and will start in early September after wrapping up his Pistons duties, with the organization praising his leadership and vision for the franchise.
The San Antonio Spurs reportedly signed Tobias Harris to a two-year, $31 million contract, per ESPN’s Shams Charania; Harris, 33, averaged 13.3 points and 5.1 rebounds in 63 games for Detroit last season.
As free agency opens, the Pistons face a potential setback: Jalen Duren, a restricted free agent, is weighing offers from the Lakers and Kings and exploring sign-and-trade options, while Tobias Harris visits multiple teams, raising the risk Detroit could lose two core contributors and forcing cap‑related decisions.