‘Controlled aggression’: What Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham said following historic playoff outing

DETROIT – Cade Cunningham delivered a historic performance when his team needed it most, scoring a franchise playoff record 45 points to lift the Detroit Pistons to a 116-109 victory in Game 5 and keep their season alive.

Facing elimination, Cunningham set the tone early with what he described as a “never-die mentality,” pairing aggressive scoring with his usual playmaking to force a Game 6.

“I just wanted to have controlled aggression all night and make sure they feel me,” Cunningham said. “I don’t want this season to end right now, so I’ve got to put it all on the line.”

Cunningham, a two-time All-Star, balanced his role as both scorer and facilitator, especially in a high-stakes fourth quarter.

While known for creating opportunities for teammates, he acknowledged the challenge of knowing when to take over.

“That’s the balance you have to find,” Cunningham said. “I know I can get us points by scoring, but also by making sure I’m using my playmaking ability. Sometimes in the fourth quarter, the ball has to be in my hands more. It’s about having that feel and making the right play.”

Cunningham was 13 for 23 from the field and 14-14 from the charity stripe in the pivotal Game 5 victory.

The duel between Banchero and Cunningham was the second game in which two No. 1 overall picks each had over 40 points against one another, since former Pistons star Allen Iverson and Shaquille O’Neal in the 2001 NBA Finals.

Banchero finished with 45 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.

Detroit also got a major boost from Ausar Thompson, who contributed 15 rebounds, five steals, and two blocks in a dominant defensive effort.

“He was great,” Cunningham said. “That’s what we need from him, to impose himself on the game like that. He’s beyond capable.”

The night also featured a high-scoring duel, with Cunningham trading big shots with Paolo Banchero, marking one of the most prolific head-to-head playoff performances in recent memory.

Despite the individual milestone, Cunningham emphasized the bigger picture: extending the series and building momentum.

“We dug ourselves a hole,” Cunningham said. “Now it’s time to climb our way out. It’s possible. We handled our business tonight, and now we’ve got to go to Orlando and do it there.”

Cunningham, who recently returned from injury, logged 44 minutes and said he continues to feel stronger as the postseason progresses.

“I feel strong and stronger,” Cunningham said.

Beyond the statistics, Cunningham reflected on embracing pressure-filled moments.

“Not everybody’s blessed with these opportunities,” Cunningham said. “To have pressure and things on the line like that, I’m just thankful for it and try to make the most of it.”

The Pistons played with renewed energy and freedom, a shift Cunningham said was critical in avoiding elimination.

“We played freer tonight,” Cunningham said. “There wasn’t as much tightness. Everybody was locked in, but we were still able to go out there and execute.”

Detroit will now look to carry that momentum into Game 6 on the road, where Cunningham expects a tougher challenge.

“They’re going to make adjustments,” Cunningham said. “We’ve got to be ready for adversity. But we’re excited for the opportunity.”