The Detroit Pistons won their first Game 1 in 15 years, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 111-101 on May 5, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. The victory gives the Pistons a 1-0 series lead.
Key statistics from the game:
- Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 23 points.
- James Harden scored 22 points for the Cavaliers.
- The Pistons had a largest lead of 18 points.
- The Cavaliers committed 16 turnovers.
- The Pistons scored 31 points off turnovers.
- Pistons shot 17-for-22 on free throws, while Cavaliers shot 8-for-8.
The game featured a strong start for the Pistons, who outscored the Cavaliers 12-0 in points off turnovers during the first quarter. Cleveland made a late push to tie the game at 93-all, thanks to contributions from Donovan Mitchell and James Harden.
The Pistons had lost six straight Game 1s before this victory. They secured this win by dominating defensively and capitalizing on turnovers. The next game is scheduled for May 7, 2026.
