In an unexpected twist, the Detroit Pistons found themselves navigating the bustling streets of New York City in an unconventional manner ahead of their matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. With the New York City Marathon in full swing, the team had no choice but to hop aboard the subway to make their way to the Barclays Center.
The marathon, which attracted over 50,000 participants running the iconic 26.2-mile route through the city’s five boroughs, caused significant road closures that left the Pistons with limited transportation options. Determined to arrive at the arena on time for their 3:30 p.m. tipoff, the team embraced the true New York experience by boarding the No. 3 train.
A Subway Slam Dunk
As the Pistons players, including standouts like Malik Beasley and Tim Hardaway Jr., stepped onto the subway with their game day luggage in tow, they found themselves standing shoulder-to-shoulder with everyday New Yorkers. The scene was reminiscent of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ subway adventure back in 2017, showcasing the unpredictable nature of life in the Big Apple.
“You never know what kind of challenges you’ll face on the road in the NBA,” remarked a team insider. “But our guys handled it like pros and focused on the task at hand.”
Anonymous team source
Minding the Gap
Navigating the subway system was no easy feat for the towering athletes, who had to remain vigilant to avoid bumping their heads on the train’s low ceilings. The team’s staff ensured that everyone stayed together and exited at the correct stop, keeping their focus on the impending battle against the Nets.
The unusual commute seemed to have little impact on the Pistons’ performance, as they went on to secure a decisive 106-92 victory over their opponents. Six Detroit players scored in double digits, led by a game-high 18 points from rising star Cade Cunningham.
The Road Less Traveled
This subway detour capped off the Pistons’ two-game stint in New York, having faced the Knicks at Madison Square Garden just two days prior. While the team is no stranger to the challenges of NBA travel, this experience highlighted the importance of adaptability and maintaining a winning mindset, no matter the circumstances.
As the Pistons continue their journey through the NBA season, this memorable subway ride will undoubtedly go down as one of the more unique moments in the team’s history. It serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of professional athletes, who must often navigate unexpected obstacles in pursuit of success on the court.
With the marathon in the rearview mirror and a hard-fought victory under their belts, the Detroit Pistons can now shift their focus to the remainder of their schedule, knowing that they have what it takes to overcome any challenge that comes their way – even if it means taking the road less traveled.
