Emotional Triumph for Cade Cunningham
MIAMI — Cade Cunningham, typically composed, was overcome with emotion after the Detroit Pistons’ thrilling 116-113 victory over the Miami Heat. This eruption of feelings seemed to encapsulate the struggles of his injury-riddled second season and the team’s previous 28-game losing streak.
In a moment of distraction, he missed witnessing the Heat’s desperate last-second shot, but such a reaction is understandable when you hit your first-ever game-winning 3-pointer in the NBA, especially against a formidable defender like Bam Adebayo, a five-time All-Defensive Team selection.
As the Heat center guarded him closely, Cunningham received the inbounds pass from Tim Hardaway Jr. with five seconds left. Despite Malik Beasley’s attempts to screen Adebayo, the seasoned defender remained glued to Cunningham. With two decisive dribbles, Cunningham found his spot and successfully banked in the winning 3-pointer.
The crowd held its breath as the ball sailed through the air, and while the question of whether Cunningham called glass arose afterward, he humorously suggested he might have whispered it. Regardless, the significance of this shot marked a high point in Cunningham’s young career, which saw him playing in his 65th game, securing his eligibility for All-NBA recognition.
On a national stage broadcasted by ESPN, Cunningham scored 25 points, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc, and added 12 rebounds and 11 assists, leading the team in all categories except for his 3-point shots. However, despite the excitement, he acknowledged the ongoing journey ahead.
Cunningham’s coach, J.B. Bickerstaff, has frequently lauded his leadership, noting his ability to understand the needs of his teammates. Throughout the postgame interviews, Cunningham consistently gave credit to those around him, emphasizing the difference it makes to have a strong support system filled with experienced players.
As the Pistons prepare for their next game against the Mavericks—Cunningham’s childhood team—he reflected on the challenges and triumphs he has experienced this season. While Wednesday’s victory felt like a significant milestone, Cunningham remains humble, eager to prove himself and continue striving for greatness. “We still approach every day with that mindset of trying to prove something,” he asserted.
