Rip Hamilton Sees a New Dawn: Detroit Pistons Rekindling the City’s Spirit

Signs are emerging that the Detroit Pistons' long-standing struggles are beginning to fade, and franchise icon Richard "Rip" Hamilton believes a new era of Detroit basketball may be on the horizon. Speaking with CNN Sports, the three-time NBA All-Star and 2004 champion shared that the current Pistons roster reminds him of the tough, determined squads that reached six straight conference finals in the 2000s. Hamilton emphasized that grit and mental toughness were critical to the Pistons’ success — traits he now sees in this youthful team.

Hamilton pointed out that Detroit's character, shaped by its hard climate and hardworking community, demands resilience. “When it’s April and still snowing, you’ve got to be mentally strong,” he said. As he watches the current Pistons, he feels echoes of his championship days. The Pistons, set to face the New York Knicks in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series, recently snapped a 17-year, 15-game playoff losing streak by winning Game 2 in New York, signaling a major shift in the team’s fortunes.

Reflecting on the team's evolution, Hamilton noted that while his era lacked a singular star like Cade Cunningham — the emerging fourth-year standout — the Pistons' rebuild shares familiar foundations. Ownership and management have built patiently, drafting young talent and supplementing with seasoned veterans like Tobias Harris, Dennis Schröder, and Tim Hardaway Jr., a strategy reminiscent of the Pistons' glory years.

After years of playoff disappointment — making the postseason only three times since 2008 and getting swept each time — a new wave of Detroit fans is finally experiencing success. This revival comes just a year after the franchise endured its worst season ever, finishing 14-68 and tying a record with a 28-game losing streak. Hamilton, who still consults for the team while raising his three children, said that just as his teammates once did, today’s players will find energy and inspiration from the passionate Motor City fans.

Hamilton fondly recalled how the team’s identity was woven with the city’s tough, blue-collar spirit. “We wore our hard hats and overalls to work,” he said, adding that Detroit fans always backed their team — whether up by 20 or down by 20 — with a loyalty and understanding unmatched elsewhere. “If it ain’t rough, it ain’t right” was their motto, and it seems the spirit lives on with this new generation.

Meanwhile, the heavily favored New York Knicks, despite recent playoff appearances, are feeling the pressure of high expectations following the acquisitions of Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges. Although the series stands tied at 1-1, the Pistons have often looked like the better squad. If not for a fourth-quarter collapse in Game 1, Detroit might be heading home to Little Caesars Arena with a surprising series lead.

Hamilton also expressed some envy for today’s Pistons players, who now play in downtown Detroit rather than suburban Auburn Hills. When he visits now, he enjoys riding electric scooters through the revitalized city, warmly welcomed wherever he goes. He marvels at the transformation, noting how the community continues to embrace its athletes. “It’s like 'Cheers' everywhere you go," he said, celebrating the city's deep bond with those who represent it.