Daniss Jenkins gave Pistons fans a reason to get loud on Friday night - and it wasn’t just the scoreboard doing the talking. As the first quarter wound down against the New York Knicks, Jenkins pulled up with less than four seconds on the clock and drilled a deep three over Jordan Clarkson, beating the buzzer and electrifying the home crowd.
It was the kind of moment that doesn't just show up on the highlight reel - it tells the story of a player who’s carving out his place in the league. Now in his second NBA season, Jenkins has grown into a reliable contributor off the bench for Detroit, showing flashes of two-way impact that coaches love and teammates trust.
That buzzer-beater was more than just a flashy play. It was symbolic of a Pistons squad that came out of the gates locked in and ready to go. Detroit dominated early, jumping out to a 28-17 lead after the first quarter and carrying that momentum into halftime with a commanding 63-42 advantage.
What stood out? Just about everything.
The Pistons were firing from deep, crashing the glass, and locking up on defense. Through two quarters, they had already knocked down 10 threes, pulled down 24 rebounds, and racked up nine combined steals and blocks - the kind of hustle stats that speak volumes about effort and execution.
DANISS JENKINS BEATS THE BUZZER FROM DEEP 🚨
— Pistons Nation (@PistonsNationCP) February 7, 2026
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Compare that to the Knicks, who managed just five made threes, 18 boards, and three stocks, and it’s easy to see why the Pistons were in control.
Jenkins was one of two Pistons in double figures at the break, putting up 11 points on an efficient 4-of-7 shooting line, along with three rebounds and a pair of assists. Cade Cunningham matched him with 11 points of his own and added four rebounds. Isaiah Stewart chipped in eight points and two boards, while Javonte Green made his presence felt with eight points and two steals - a classic do-it-all performance from the veteran wing.
Detroit’s balanced attack and energy on both ends of the floor gave them the edge throughout the first half. And with Jenkins stepping up in big moments, this young Pistons group continues to show signs of growth and chemistry.
Next up, they hit the road to take on a surging Charlotte Hornets squad on February 9. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET, and if Detroit brings the same intensity, they’ll be ready for the challenge.
