25
Nov,2025
The Detroit Pistons didn’t just win a game on Monday night — they rewrote a chapter of their own history. Beating the Indiana Pacers 122-117 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on November 24, 2025, Detroit tied its own franchise record with a 13th consecutive victory — matching the legendary 1989-90 and 2003-04 championship squads. It’s a stunning turnaround for a team that, just two seasons ago, lost 28 games in a row — the worst streak in NBA history. Now? They’re the league’s hottest team, sitting at 15-2 overall and 7-1 on the road, with the Eastern Conference’s best record.
A Second Quarter Surge That Broke the Game Open
The Pistons didn’t need overtime to seal this one. They did it in the second quarter. Down by three early, Detroit exploded for 36 points while holding Indiana to just 23 — a 13-point swing that turned a tight contest into a 71-55 halftime lead. They shot 58.5% from the field, buried seven of 14 three-pointers, and forced the Pacers into poor shot selection. The difference? Discipline. The Pistons moved the ball with purpose, and when Cade Cunningham drove into the lane, he didn’t just score — he drew defenders and found open shooters. His stat line — 24 points, 11 rebounds, six assists — was the engine behind the performance. But he wasn’t alone.Caris LeVert returned to form with 19 points, hitting key threes after missing most of last season with a broken fibula. Jalen Duren dominated the paint with 17 points and 12 boards, while Jaden Ivey, playing in just his second game back from injury, added 12 crucial points. The Pistons’ bench, including Tobias Harris and Duncan Robinson, kept the energy high. Defense? They forced 16 turnovers and turned them into 23 fast-break points. As one ESPN analyst put it: “They’re not just winning — they’re playing with a swagger you don’t see often.”
The Pacers’ Desperate Rally Falls Short
Meanwhile, the Pacers are unraveling. Without Tyrese Haliburton — the All-Star guard who tore his right Achilles in the 2025 NBA Finals — they’ve become unrecognizable. Their 2-15 record is the worst in the Eastern Conference, and they’ve lost 10 of their last 11. Monday night was no different. Pascal Siakam fought hard with 24 points and eight rebounds, and Jarace Walker added 21, but the lack of playmaking was glaring. They trailed by 18 early in the fourth quarter. Then, suddenly, they woke up. A 29-21 run in the final 12 minutes cut the lead to two. With 11 seconds left, Bennedict Mathurin launched a three to tie it. The ball clanged off the back iron. Silence. The Pacers’ bench buried their faces in hands. The Pistons exhaled.
A Franchise Turnaround No One Saw Coming
Two years ago, the Pistons were the punchline of the NBA. A 28-game losing streak. A roster full of prospects and veterans who didn’t fit. A front office under fire. Now? They’re the story. The same team that once couldn’t win a close game is now winning them in the final seconds. The same team that traded away veterans for picks is now seeing those picks blossom into starters. Cunningham, once criticized for his decision-making, is now the quiet leader of a contender. Coach Monty Williams — a former championship assistant and head coach — has instilled structure without stifling creativity. The Pistons aren’t just winning. They’re building something sustainable.And the Pacers? They’re stuck. Without Haliburton, they’ve lost their rhythm. Coach Rick Carlisle is doing all he can, but you can’t coach a healthy Achilles tendon. Their next game against the Toronto Raptors on November 26 might be their last chance to avoid a top-five draft pick. Meanwhile, the Pistons head to Boston for an NBA Cup clash — a game that could cement them as real title contenders.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
The Pistons’ streak is now tied with two of their most successful eras. Can they break it? They face the Celtics — a team with playoff DNA — on Wednesday. If they win, they’ll set a new franchise record. And they’re not just playing for history. They’re playing for credibility. The Milwaukee Bucks (8-10) are still chasing them, but Detroit’s schedule softens after the Cup. If they keep this up, they’ll be a top seed come April.The Pacers? They’re in full rebuild mode. Haliburton’s recovery timeline is 9-12 months. They’ll likely be sellers at the trade deadline. Expect more roster churn. Their future may lie with Walker and Mathurin — but right now, they’re just trying to win games. One at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this winning streak compare to other NBA teams recently?
The Pistons’ 13-game streak ties them for the longest in the NBA this season, matching the Phoenix Suns’ run in early 2025. Only three teams since 2020 have won 15+ games in a row — the 2020 Lakers, 2022 Warriors, and 2023 Nuggets. Detroit’s turnaround from a 28-game losing streak to a top-tier contender is unprecedented in modern NBA history.
Why is Tyrese Haliburton’s absence so devastating for the Pacers?
Haliburton led the NBA in assists per game (11.2) in 2024-25 and was the engine of Indiana’s offense. His ability to run pick-and-rolls, create for others, and hit clutch threes made the Pacers a top-5 offensive team. Without him, they’ve dropped to 28th in offensive rating. His leadership and rhythm are irreplaceable — and no current Pacers guard can replicate his playmaking.
What does this mean for Cade Cunningham’s MVP candidacy?
Cunningham is now averaging 22.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.4 assists over the last 13 games — numbers that rival top MVP candidates. His efficiency (51% FG, 41% from three) and leadership have made him the quiet face of Detroit’s resurgence. If the Pistons stay in the top 2 of the East, he’ll be a serious contender. He’s no longer just a prospect — he’s a franchise cornerstone.
Is this Pistons streak sustainable?
It’s possible. Their depth is strong, their defense is elite, and they’ve shown resilience in close games. But they’ll face tougher opponents — the Celtics, Nuggets, and Cavaliers are upcoming. The key is avoiding injuries. With 10 players averaging 20+ minutes, fatigue could become an issue. But if they keep playing with this intensity, they’re not just a streak team — they’re a real playoff threat.
What’s the significance of tying the 1989-90 and 2003-04 records?
Those were Detroit’s only two NBA championship seasons. The 1989-90 team featured Joe Dumars and Isiah Thomas; the 2003-04 squad had Chauncey Billups, Ben Wallace, and Rasheed Wallace. Tying those records doesn’t just mean wins — it means the Pistons are returning to their legacy of toughness, defense, and team basketball. This team is starting to feel like those champions.
