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Ben Wallace
These Pistons Are No ‘Bad Boys’
… They Earned Their Own Identity!!!
Published April 23, 2025 12:30 AM PDT
Detroit’s basketball scene is experiencing a resurgence after the Pistons ended their 15-game playoff losing streak with a win over the New York Knicks on Monday. However, former Piston Ben Wallace emphasized in a recent interview with TMZ Sports that this current team should be viewed through its own lens rather than as a continuation of the famed “Bad Boys” era.
During an encounter at LAX, Wallace expressed optimism about his former team’s chances in the playoffs despite the series being tied at 1-1. He acknowledged that while a significant journey lies ahead, the enthusiasm and determination shown by the players may lead to an upset in the first round.
“The guys have been competing well,” he remarked. “They’re playing hard and working together. We will see how it unfolds. There’s an excitement among the players about returning to the playoffs. Once you reach this stage, anything can happen.”
Wallace made it clear that he prefers not to draw direct comparisons between today’s Pistons and the legendary “Bad Boys” teams from the late 1980s and early 1990s or the revamped version from the early 2000s that brought championships to Detroit. This sentiment is not a critique of current stars like Cade Cunningham but rather an acknowledgment of the new team’s distinct identity.
“What they have achieved is to earn their own identity,” Wallace noted. “These players are going out on the court, giving their all, and it’s this effort that defines them. When you play that way, you can ultimately create your own legacy.”
He also commended J.B. Bickerstaff for his impactful leadership since joining the franchise and suggested that Bickerstaff’s performance merits consideration for Coach of the Year accolades.
“Once the players are motivated and competing fiercely, it reflects positively on the entire organization,” he stated. “It’s not just about the athletes; it encourages coaches and staff as well.”
Wallace’s enthusiasm for the team extends to the community, as he is pleased to see the city of Detroit reignite its passion for basketball after enduring years of hardship.
“I believe this resurgence offers a chance for the city to rally behind the team,” he explained. “For the first time in a long while, fans are genuinely excited about Pistons basketball again. That connection is what matters most.”
As the team prepares for Game 3 at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday, the anticipation is palpable, and the venue is expected to be filled to capacity.
Source
www.tmz.com