Detroit Pistons Make Franchise History with Record 53-Point Victory Over Brooklyn Nets
The Detroit Pistons created a monumental moment in franchise history on February 1, 2026, delivering a stunning 130–77 victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Little Caesars Arena. This commanding 53-point win now stands as the most dominant one-sided performance in the organization's storied history.
Breaking a Long-Standing Record
This remarkable achievement officially surpassed the previous franchise record of a 52-point victory, which was set against the Boston Celtics back in January 2003 with a 118–66 win. The Pistons' latest triumph demonstrates their current dominance in the league and their ability to perform at an exceptional level.
All-Star Performances Fuel Historic Night
The victory was particularly special for the newly minted All-Star duo of Jalen Duren and Cade Cunningham. Duren received news of his first-ever All-Star selection as an Eastern Conference reserve just before tip-off, and he celebrated this milestone with an impressive performance of 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting 8-13 from the field and 5-6 from the free throw line.
Cunningham, who was selected as a reserve last season in 2025, is making his debut as a starter this All-Star season. He ended the night with 18 points, 12 assists, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals, while going 7-11 from the field and 1-4 from the three-point line.
Complete Team Dominance
Under Cunningham's leadership, the Pistons raced to a 67–44 lead by halftime, fueled by Ausar Thompson's half-court buzzer-beater. Detroit's efficiency as a team was on full display throughout the game as they shot an impressive 56.5% (48-of-85) from the field while committing only eight turnovers.
In stark contrast, the Nets struggled with 23 turnovers and couldn't overcome the Pistons' formidable defense. Brooklyn was restricted to a combined total of just 33 points in the third and fourth quarters, while Detroit dropped 63 points during the same period.
Current Standings and Momentum
The Pistons are currently leading the Eastern Conference with an impressive 36–12 record and are riding a two-game winning streak. This historic victory against the Nets marks their second consecutive win and solidifies their position at the top of the conference.
For the Brooklyn Nets, this loss represents their second-worst defeat of the season, following their 66-120 loss against the Knicks in late January. The Nets are currently in third place in the Eastern Conference with a 13–35 record.
Nets' Continued Struggles
After enduring a seven-game losing streak, the Nets had finally registered a 109-99 win over the Jazz in their last meeting and hoped to change their momentum. However, the Pistons had different plans and completely dominated the matchup.
The Nets only managed to attempt 73 shots from the field, converting just 24 of those (32.9%), while they went 7-of-31 from the arc. Cam Thomas and rookie Drake Powell led the night as the Nets' highest scorers with 12 points each.
Looking Ahead
For their next matchup, the Nets will host the Western Conference's Los Angeles Lakers, who currently hold a 29-19 record. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons prepare to host the Denver Nuggets, who stand at 33-17, on Tuesday. Both teams will be looking to build on their current trajectories as the season progresses.
