Cade Cunningham’s Game-Winning Dunk Leads Pistons to Historic Start

The Detroit Pistons have completed one of the most dramatic playoff comebacks in recent NBA history, defeating the Orlando Magic 116-94 in Game 7 of their Eastern Conference first-round series on Sunday, May 3, 2026. The victory marked the Pistons’ first playoff series win in 18 years, advancing them to the next round where they will face the winner of the Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Toronto Raptors Game 7. The Pistons, who entered the series as the top seed, had trailed the Magic 3-1 before rallying to force a decisive Game 7 at home. Their resilience was on full display as they overcame a 24-point deficit in Game 6 to secure the series. Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris were the stars of the Pistons’ performance, each scoring 32 and 30 points respectively. Cunningham, who averaged 32.4 points in the series, became the first Pistons player to lead the team in scoring since Bob Lanier in 1977. Harris provided critical support, particularly in the second quarter, as the Pistons took control of the game. Orlando’s Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 38 points, but the team struggled to find consistent scoring beyond him. The Magic managed only 113 points across the final six quarters of the series, averaging just 18.8 points per period. Their inability to score in the clutch was a key factor in their defeat. Jalen Duren also had a standout game for the Pistons, recording his first double-double of the series with 15 points and 15 rebounds. The Pistons’ defense, particularly against Orlando’s center Wendell Carter Jr., was a turning point in the series. The victory was a testament to the Pistons’ depth and resilience. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised his team’s ability to overcome adversity, stating, “This is a special group. And you can’t count us out. No matter the circumstances, no matter the situation, I like our chances to fight our way back.” The Pistons’ next challenge will be the winner of the Cavaliers-Raptors Game 7, with Game 1 scheduled for Tuesday at Little Caesars Arena. Their historic comeback has set the tone for a potential deep playoff run.

Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris led the charge for the Pistons, with Cunningham delivering a 32-point, 12-assist performance and Harris contributing 30 points. Their combined efforts were pivotal in securing the series victory.

Orlando Magic coach Jamahl Mosley acknowledged the Pistons’ dominance, saying, They fought and battled the whole way. We just didn’t get the job done.

The series win marks a significant milestone for the Pistons, who had not won a playoff series since 2008. Their journey through the playoffs will now continue with a focus on the next round, where they will face a new set of challenges.

The Pistons’ ability to overcome adversity and deliver in high-pressure situations has set them up for a potential deep playoff run, with fans and analysts alike watching closely to see how far they can go.