Detroit — After nearly 20 years, the Detroit Pistons have successfully advanced past the first round of the playoffs. They achieved the milestone with a 116-94 victory in Game 7 against the Orlando Magic on Sunday at Little Caesars Arena.
The victory marked the Pistons' first playoff series win since 2008. However, it wasn't without its challenges, as the team had to overcome a 3-1 deficit for the second time in franchise history (2003). Notably, both of their recent playoff accomplishments came against the Magic.
BOX SCORE: Pistons 116, Magic 94
Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 32 points on 10 of 18 shooting and 12 assists. Tobias Harris made the biggest difference by adding 30 points on 11 of 18 shooting with five made 3-pointers and nine rebounds. He scored 17 points in the second quarter, which was enough to give the Pistons the momentum they needed.
Both Jalen Duren and Daniss Jenkins had their best performances in the win-or-go-home game after struggling throughout the series. Duren helped the Pistons win the rebounding battle with a double-double of 15 rebounds and 15 points. Jenkins added 16 points off the bench on 4-for-5 shooting from behind the arc.
After scoring 23 points in the first half, Paolo Banchero led Orlando with 36. Desmond Bane contributed with 16.
This is a developing story. Come back soon to detroitnews.com for more on this game.
coty.davis@detroitnews.com
@cotydavis_24
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Pistons dispel Magic in Game 7, win first playoff series since 2008