On December 26, 2023, during their matchup against the Brooklyn Nets, the Detroit Pistons formally entered the annals of NBA history as one of the worst teams in the league. The Nets defeated the Pistons 118-112, marking their 27th consecutive loss of the season. The team now holds the longest single-season losing streak, showing minimal improvement this season. They’ve been ranked 28th out of 30 in NBA offense and 26th in defense.
Making History in a Negative Light
Rodger Sherman tweeted after the matchup, expressing concern for the Detroit Pistons.
Photo Cred: The Boston Globe
“If the Pistons keep it up Detroit could have the team with the worst 21st century record in the NBA, NFL (08 Lions, 0-16) and MLB (03 Tigers, 43-119), and NHL (20 Red Wings, 17-49-5). You could hit a Detroit sports fan in the kneecap with a wrench and they won’t feel a thing.”
The Pistons Catch a Break
Four days later, on December 30, the team finally halted their losing streak with a 129-127 victory over the Toronto Raptors. With that win, the Pistons concluded the year with a single-season game record of 3-29.
Photo Cred: NBC Sports
Shooting guard Jaden Ivey shared this thoughts on his team’s performance and expectations from fans.
“You win one, and now it’s like … we haven’t done anything this year,” said Ivey. “It comes down to pride. All of the pain that we felt this year … this is painful. This is painful to go through. We’re in a season where we’re losing a ton of games, and it’s like … it comes down to pride at the end of the day. The moment you step out there on the floor, ‘What can you do to help the team?’ both defensively and offensively.”
There’s Still Hope in Detroit
Detroit is hopeful that the win will provide them with increased momentum entering this new year. The Pistons have since managed to beat the Washington Wizards five days ago (129-117). Even with that result, they are still six wins away from ensuring they avoid the worst season in NBA history while competing in 82 games (9-73, 1972-73 Philadelphia 76ers).
Photo Cred: Detroit Free Press
