Cade Cunningham is a dynamic 24-year-old guard with Henderson’s explosiveness and playmaking ability. Since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, he has quickly established himself as the face of the Detroit Pistons’ franchise. His ascent to stardom has been marked by impressive performances, including a standout Game 2 in last season’s playoffs where he scored 33 points, leading Detroit to victory. Coming into this season, Cunningham announced his presence by inking a max rookie extension with the Pistons worth five years, $269 million. Further, he was nominated as a finalist for the Most Improved Player award and earned the accolade as a first-time All-Star.
Cunningham’s impact on the team is profound. He’s already had a key hand in helping end the Motor City’s five-season playoff drought. His talent, leadership and personal qualities shine not only on the court but beyond. His incredible performance last season helped him finish in seventh place of the finals MVP voting. This accomplishment is a testament to his drive to compete at the highest level possible. He dreams of one day winning an MVP trophy and an NBA title, and the hardworking mentality that he believes will get him there is clear.
As the Pistons build their future, it seems they have every intention of doing so on Cunningham’s shoulders. An all-around talent, standing 6’6″, he’s got the perfect combination of speed, size and skill to dominate games in the cutthroat Eastern Conference. Team president Trajan Langdon and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff have built the perfect structure for Cunningham to flourish. Thanks to that freedom, he has grown into an exceptionally effective leader.
Cunningham’s path hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing. In difficult times, he has shown resolve beyond question. According to Pistons owner Tom Gores, “When we were at our lowest, the man didn’t blink.” Gores lauded Cunningham’s character, calling attention to how he never stopped putting the work in and always uplifted his teammates, even when facing adversity.
Bickerstaff as well noted the burden of expectation that’s been piled on Cunningham, given that he’s the franchise’s supposed keystone player. “It is a heavy burden, and it’s a burden that you don’t get days off from,” said Bickerstaff. He was quick to point out that a player with Cunningham’s stature and talent level can’t have off days. Each and every day, everybody that’s in your vicinity is looking,” he told me.
None of his colleagues deny Cunningham’s maturity, a word they all have to describe him. As teammate Tobias Harris remarked, “I thought he was 28,” showcasing Cunningham’s mature leadership skills dating back to his days on the collegiate hardwood. His competitive spirit is matched by an intense work ethic, making him the type of player that you want to follow.
Looking forward, efficiency is Cunningham’s new target, Bickerstaff said. “The Carmelo Anthonys, the Kevin Durants of the world, you got moves quick enough [that] the double teams can’t get to — because in playoff situations you’re going to see more crowds, more double teams,” Bickerstaff explained.
Cunningham himself recognized the significance of his Most Improved Player nomination, stating, “Most Improved Player was, I think, a great honor to be considered for.” This feeling mutually informs his appreciation for both his development and the expectations that come with it.
As the Pistons continue to develop their roster with players who complement Cunningham’s style of play, he remains focused on improving his game. His clock-beating three-pointer against the Miami Heat showcased his potential to perform under pressure and solidified his status as a clutch player.
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