Detroit Pistons beat Orlando Magic to seal historic 3-1 playoff comeback
The Detroit Pistons have won their first NBA playoff series in 18 years by routing the Orlando Magic 116-94 in Game 7 on Sunday to overcome a 3-1 series deficit.
Cade Cunningham orchestrated the decisive victory in Michigan with a spectacular performance, registering 32 points and 12 assists.
The standout guard was ably supported by Tobias Harris, who contributed 30 points to secure progression to the next round.
Detroit will now host Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals on Tuesday against either the Cleveland Cavaliers or the Toronto Raptors.
A historic post-season turnaround
The Pistons have become only the 15th team in NBA history to successfully erase a 3-1 deficit in a best-of-seven matchup.
This dramatic revival follows a remarkably similar feat achieved by the Philadelphia 76ers, who eliminated the Boston Celtics in identical circumstances just 24 hours earlier.
Momentum firmly shifted during Game 6 in Florida, where Detroit remarkably erased a 24-point disadvantage before carrying that dominance into Sunday’s home fixture.
The visiting Magic struggled immensely during the latter stages of the series, managing a paltry average of 18.8 points per quarter across the final six periods of basketball.
Star duos dictate the narrative
Cunningham and Harris entered the record books as the first Detroit teammates to score 30 points in a playoff tie since Bob Lanier and Howard Porter achieved the feat against the Golden State Warriors in 1977.
Conversely, Orlando relied almost entirely on Paolo Banchero, who valiantly poured in a game-high 38 points.
The talented forward became an isolated offensive weapon after German international Franz Wagner sustained a crucial injury in Game 4.
While Harris provided vital secondary scoring for the hosts, Desmond Bane was the only other visiting player to reach double figures during the crucial opening three quarters.
Pistons assert dominance to seal progression
All-Star center Jalen Duren also enjoyed a resurgent performance for the victorious side at Little Caesars Arena.
Having been outplayed by Wendell Carter Jr earlier in the series, the imposing big man registered his first double-double of the post-season with 15 points and 15 rebounds.
A devastating 11-2 run at the beginning of the third quarter ultimately put the game out of reach, extending the home advantage to a commanding 20 points.
A buzzer-beating three-pointer from Daniss Jenkins served as the final blow of the third period, ensuring the hosts cruised through a stress-free final quarter to spark wild celebrations in Detroit.