Pistons Bounce Back, Outlast Warriors Behind Big Nights from Cunningham and Duren
SAN FRANCISCO - Less than 24 hours after a tough emotional loss in Phoenix, the Detroit Pistons showed the kind of resilience that defines contenders. They came out firing in Chase Center, building a 20-point cushion on the Golden State Warriors before fatigue and travel started to catch up.
But when Golden State made its push in the fourth quarter, Detroit didn’t fold. Instead, they dug in and closed out a 131-124 win on Friday night.
This was a statement finish to a demanding three-game West Coast swing. The Pistons leave California with a 2-1 road trip and a 35-12 overall record - a mark that continues to signal their place among the league’s elite.
Cade Cunningham: In Control, Again
Cade Cunningham continues to look every bit the leader Detroit hoped for when they drafted him. He poured in 29 points and dished out 11 assists, notching his 25th double-double of the season.
What stood out wasn’t just the stat line - it was the poise. Cunningham was the engine of the offense, orchestrating possessions with patience, punishing switches, and keeping the Pistons composed when the Warriors made their run.
He’s not just filling up the box score - he’s setting the tone.
Jalen Duren Brings the Muscle
Jalen Duren was a force in the paint all night. His 22 points and 13 rebounds gave him his 22nd double-double of the season, and his presence was felt on both ends. Whether it was finishing through contact, cleaning up the glass, or protecting the rim, Duren gave Detroit the interior advantage they needed against a smaller Warriors frontcourt.
His chemistry with Cunningham continues to grow, and when they’re clicking like this, it adds a whole new dimension to Detroit’s offense.
Warriors' Rally Falls Short
Golden State made things interesting down the stretch, outscoring Detroit 29-23 in the fourth quarter. But the comeback effort lost some steam when Stephen Curry exited late in the third with right knee soreness. Curry still led the Warriors with 23 points, but his absence in crunch time was a blow to Golden State’s rhythm and shot creation.
De’Anthony Melton stepped up with 18 points, providing some scoring punch, but the Warriors couldn’t quite close the gap.
The Bigger Picture
This wasn’t just a bounce-back win - it was a gut-check moment for a Pistons team that’s showing it can handle adversity. Back-to-backs on the road are never easy, especially after a tough loss, but Detroit came out with energy, built a lead, and held on when things got tight.
Cunningham and Duren continue to drive this team forward, and if this road trip is any indication, the Pistons are learning how to win in different ways - fast starts, gritty finishes, and everything in between.