DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons are determined to ensure this season surpasses the previous one, starting with a noticeable yet subtle alteration to the team’s dress code during practice.
“The veterans can’t even wear hoodies,” remarked Malik Beasley, a newcomer to the Pistons.
This comment came shortly after a shootaround before the Pistons’ second preseason game under the guidance of their new head coach, J.B. Bickerstaff. As players dispersed around the practice hoops, most donned the traditional practice jerseys and shorts. A few opted for sweatpants, and at a casual glance, some appeared to wear Nike-issued Pistons hoodies. However, as per Bickerstaff’s latest directive, the actual hoods of those sweatshirts were resting on the players’ shoulders.
“It’s just the last remnant of that old-school mentality,” Bickerstaff explained. “Growing up with my father (longtime NBA coach Bernie Bickerstaff), there were rules: you don’t wear anything on your head during games. You avoid jewelry. You practice as you intend to play.”
Cade Cunningham, the franchise player for the Pistons, acknowledged that in previous years he sometimes wore his hood up during practice, but he supports this new guideline.
“Teachers often tell students in classrooms, ‘Take your hood off.’ It’s really the same principle,” he stated. “It’s about professionalism and being prepared to play.”
Following the worst season in franchise history, where the Pistons managed to win only 14 of 82 games and set an NBA record for the most consecutive losses in a single season with 28, the team faces more significant challenges than just the attire worn at practice.
Last summer, the Pistons hired Monty Williams and extended for him a lucrative six-year, $78.5 million contract, the richest ever given to a coach at that time. However, things deteriorated so significantly that he was dismissed, leading to the hiring of Bickerstaff, who had recently closed out a notably successful season with the Cleveland Cavaliers despite the absence of LeBron James.
The decision to bring in Bickerstaff was made by Trajan Langdon, who had just arrived from New Orleans to take the role of president of basketball operations. Langdon’s arrival technically came before the franchise parted ways with general manager Troy Weaver, whose ambitious four-year rebuilding plan crumbled under a particularly abysmal season.
Shortly after Langdon and Bickerstaff stepped in, the Pistons made a significant commitment to Cunningham, 23, by signing him to a five-year, $224 million contract extension. Drafted as the No. 1 pick in 2021, Cunningham has since witnessed the team lose 192 games, the highest number in the NBA. This lucrative contract extension indicates that the Pistons do not hold Cunningham accountable for the defeats, nor have they lost confidence in his abilities. The same can be said for Cunningham, who remains firmly dedicated to the organization. He noted that he was aware of the influx of new faces and the forthcoming changes, yet he maintained, “I didn’t alter my mindset about the team and organization at all.”
The adjustments made by the Pistons, from changes in personnel to the hoodie rule, aim to support Cunningham in fulfilling his potential and to bolster the franchise’s efforts in regaining its stature.
“He aspires to greatness,” Langdon commented on Cunningham. “He’s committed and eager to lead. I think this approach is simply facilitating his journey to achieve that.”
Cunningham has played three seasons thus far, but his second year saw him participating in only 12 games due to shin surgery. The development between his rookie year and his third season has been encouraging, irrespective of the Pistons’ overall record. His individual statistics saw substantial improvements; he averaged nearly 23 points and eight assists, with shooting percentages reaching 45 percent from the field and 35 percent from beyond the arc, while also reducing his turnovers per game (3.4) compared to his rookie season.
Langdon, with extensive consultation from Bickerstaff, aimed to build around Cunningham last summer in two main ways. One objective was to infuse the roster, which features ten players aged 25 or younger, with success and experience. The other was to enhance the team’s shooting capabilities.
While Cunningham is the centerpiece of the Pistons’ young core, the franchise is also enthusiastic about its third-year center Jalen Duren (20) and third-year guard Jaden Ivey.
(22), second-year forward Ausar Thompson (21), and rookie Ron Holland II (19), who was chosen fifth overall in June’s draft.
Beasley, 27, has had the opportunity to play alongside stars like James, Nikola Jokić, and Giannis Antetokounmpo during his eight seasons in the NBA. In 2023, he reached the Western Conference finals with James and the Lakers. Last season, he boasted a 41 percent shooting percentage from beyond the arc while playing with Milwaukee and was one of the notable free-agent acquisitions for the Pistons, signing a one-year, $6 million deal. Beasley expressed his connection to Detroit, noting that his mother is from the city, and he is “excited to help bring Detroit basketball back.”
Tobias Harris, 32, a former Piston and veteran of 13 NBA seasons, has made his return to the franchise on a two-year, $52 million free-agent contract. He spent the last five and a half seasons in Philadelphia, playing alongside Joel Embiid, and has a career average of 37 percent shooting from three-point range.
Langdon also acquired Tim Hardaway Jr., 32, fresh off an appearance in the NBA Finals with Luka Dončić and the Dallas Mavericks. Hardaway holds a career shooting percentage of 36 percent from beyond the arc. Additionally, Fred Vinson, a respected shooting coach who spent 14 years with the Pelicans organization, has joined the coaching staff this offseason.
“Over the span of 82 games, if your habits aren’t correct, you will inevitably wear down both physically and mentally,” Langdon noted. “If you’re not in solid physical, emotional, or mental condition, you won’t be able to finish games. The last five minutes demand extreme focus and attention to detail. The players we’ve acquired understand that mindset developed in winning environments.”
Beasley mentioned that Cunningham might need “a little help with his voice” in terms of leadership; something that he and Harris are willing to provide. He also indicated that Cunningham would greatly benefit from having more shooters around him, and he is eager to explain this to anyone, including Cunningham himself.
“In the last game, I was constantly talking to him during free throws, letting him know: ‘Listen, bro, I’m not trying to sound cocky, but you now have two elite shooters on your team. This means that defenders can’t help (on Cunningham) at all (during the pick-and-roll),’” Beasley recalled.
At the Pistons’ practice facility, Beasley became animated as he illustrated how his presence creates…
more room for Cunningham to operate. He demonstrated the floaters that Cunningham could utilize if defenders collapse on Duren, the roll man, as well as the lobs Duren can receive from Cunningham for a dunk if the defense focuses solely on Cunningham. Beasley articulated that, should defenses send help, “you’re going to get an assist. I’m going to knock it down for you.”
“After our recent preseason game when we were done playing and the younger guys took the floor, he said to me, ‘Beaz, I didn’t even realize how much the floor is open,’” Beasley recounted Cunningham’s words. “I responded, ‘Yeah, so use me to your advantage.’”
Interestingly, the Cavaliers’ primary strategy under Bickerstaff was the pick-and-roll. Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen executed it so effectively and frequently that both became All-Stars under Bickerstaff’s guidance in 2022. The standout player on any Bickerstaff-led team in Cleveland was Donovan Mitchell, who experienced his best two statistical seasons while being coached by Bickerstaff.
Moreover, when Bickerstaff assumed his role with the Cavs, they were engaged in a three-year period where they, rather than the Pistons, occupied the bottom of the NBA standings. In Bickerstaff’s initial full season, the team won a mere 22 games, then surged to 44 wins the following year, culminating in seasons with 51 and 48 wins and consecutive playoff appearances.
Given his stylistic compatibility and a history of individual and team improvement under his leadership, Bickerstaff appears to be the perfect fit for the Pistons as they look to rebuild, once again.
Yet, as Bickerstaff noted in his office, “the players (of the Pistons) are not interested in hearing stories from our past and the successes we had with other players. They want to know, how can we assist this team?”
This is where the hoodie rule becomes significant.
Establishing a benchmark of professionalism, discipline, and conditioning (Beasley pointed out that Bickerstaff’s conditioning drills were noticeably tough at the start of training camp) further reinforces a framework where the remaining players do not rely solely on Cunningham for guidance.
“The discussions I’ve had with Cade, observing how his teammates respond to him and the way he interacts with them, indicate that he strives to be among the elite and recognizes that winning is essential for gaining respect from peers,” Bickerstaff stated.
“We believe we have a formula that empowers players,” Bickerstaff continued. “Our goal is to apply that formula to enable all of our players to excel. It’s not just about one individual. If we’re to reach our aspirations with this group, we must cultivate everyone’s development and help every player build that confidence.”
Bickerstaff ultimately lost his position in Cleveland as the organization felt the pressure to retain Mitchell, who was eligible for an extension this past summer and was one of the veteran players dissatisfied with Bickerstaff’s coaching methodology, as detailed by The Athletic in May. The team had traded away most of its assets to bring Mitchell on board in 2022, subsequently moving on from Bickerstaff to secure Mitchell’s commitment. Their plan succeeded, as Mitchell agreed to a three-year, $150 million extension.
The Pistons also benefited significantly, bringing in a coach whose abilities and experience appear to align perfectly with the team’s urgent needs.
“We have full respect for (Bickerstaff),” Beasley remarked. “And we’ll do whatever he requires from us.”
“Having him join us as someone who has been there before and succeeded with a young team is exciting for all of us,” Cunningham expressed. “Just having a fresh start and new energy in the building is monumental for me.”
Currently, all parties seem enthusiastic about the new collaborations and chemistry that are developing in Detroit. Once the regular season begins and this young team faces challenges, those relationships will undoubtedly be put to the test.
However, if the Pistons’ foundational strategy is sound — making adjustments around Cunningham to assist him in helping the team — then the excitement radiating from Detroit will likely persist.
“I have no doubt Cade can become an All-Star,” Beasley remarked. “I believe we can assist him on that journey.”
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(Image of Cade Cunningham: Gregory Shamus / Getty Images)
Pistons Embrace Change: New Dress Code and a Fresh Start as They Aim to Bounce Back
Understanding the New Dress Code
The Detroit Pistons have recently implemented a new dress code, marking a significant change in the team’s culture. This initiative aims to elevate the team’s professionalism while nurturing individual expression among players. The shift is not just about aesthetics; it reflects a broader strategy to enhance team morale and public perception.
What Does the New Dress Code Entail?
The new dress code for the Pistons emphasizes:
- Business Casual Attire: Players are encouraged to wear smart casual outfits during travel and press events.
- Uniform Branding: Incorporating team colors and logos to reinforce team identity.
- Creative Expression: While promoting professionalism, players can still express their personal style.
The Benefits of a New Dress Code
Implementing a new dress code offers numerous advantages for the Detroit Pistons:
- Enhanced Team Cohesion: A unified look can foster a sense of belonging and teamwork.
- Improved Public Image: A polished appearance can positively affect how fans and the media perceive the team.
- Boosted Player Confidence: Players may feel more professional and confident in their presentation.
Case Studies: Successful Dress Codes in Professional Sports
Several teams in professional sports have successfully implemented dress codes that transformed their image and culture. Here are a few examples:
| Team | Dress Code Features | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Heat | Business Casual; Team Colors | Enhanced media relations; stronger brand image |
| Golden State Warriors | Smart Casual; Unique Accessories | Increased fan engagement; positive social media presence |
| Los Angeles Lakers | Formal Attire; Signature Brands | Elevated status as an iconic franchise; heightened player visibility |
First-Hand Experience: Players Share Their Thoughts
Many players have shared their thoughts on the new dress code, highlighting its positive effects:
“I feel more confident when I step off the team bus in a suit that reflects who I am. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about representing the Pistons with pride.” – Pistons Player
“The new dress code has helped us come together as a team, both on and off the court. We stand out, and it shows that we mean business.” – Pistons Player
Practical Tips for Embracing the New Dress Code
For players and fans alike, adapting to the new dress code can be a smooth transition. Here are some practical tips:
- Invest in Versatile Pieces: Choose wardrobe staples that can be mixed and matched for various occasions.
- Stay True to Your Style: Incorporate personal touches to your outfits while adhering to the overall dress code.
- Follow Trends Wisely: Keep an eye on current fashion trends but select styles that suit your body type and personality.
Fan Reactions: How Supporters View the Change
Fans have expressed a variety of reactions to the Pistons’ new dress code:
- Excitement: Many fans are thrilled about the professional look, seeing it as a sign of the team’s commitment to success.
- Curiosity: Some fans are eager to see how players interpret the dress code with their unique styles.
- Encouragement: Fans believe that a polished appearance will lead to better performance on the court, as players embody a more professional image.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
While change often brings benefits, it can also present challenges. Here are some potential hurdles the Pistons may face and suggested solutions:
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Resistance to Change | Provide clear communication about the benefits of the dress code. |
| Balancing Personal Style | Encourage players to express themselves within the guidelines. |
| Inconsistency in Implementation | Set clear expectations and examples for players to follow. |
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Pistons
The new dress code is part of a larger initiative to revitalize the Detroit Pistons as they strive for excellence on and off the court. This commitment to professionalism and teamwork can potentially pave the way for a successful season ahead.
Conclusion: A Fresh Start for the Pistons
As the Detroit Pistons embrace change through a new dress code, they are not only redefining their image but also setting the stage for a fresh start. With the support of fans and a commitment to professionalism, the Pistons are poised to bounce back stronger than ever.
