Pistons' Frustration Grows After Overtime Loss to Cavaliers in Game 5
After the Detroit Pistons suffered a heartbreaking overtime defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 5 of their second-round series, now trailing 3-2, both star Cade Cunningham and coach J.B. Bickerstaff voiced their displeasure over a contentious no-call in the game's closing moments. The Pistons initially showcased dominance, leading by as much as 15 points in the first half. As the game progressed, they maintained a nine-point lead with just three minutes left in the fourth quarter. However, they faltered down the stretch, failing to score in the final minutes, allowing the Cavaliers to rally back and tie the game. The pivotal moment occurred when Donovan Mitchell attempted a short jumper, only to be disrupted by Ausar Thompson, who knocked the ball loose. As Thompson pursued the ball, he was knocked over by Jarrett Allen, prompting the Pistons to seek a foul call. Despite their protests, the officials did not respond, and the game proceeded to overtime, where the Cavaliers seized control. Cunningham expressed his frustration, stating, "We all saw the play, I think it's pretty clear it was a foul," after finishing with an impressive 39 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. Bickerstaff echoed this sentiment, insisting, "[Allen] fouled Ausar. It's clear. He trips him when he's going for a loose ball." Despite the outcry, Thompson refrained from blaming the referees, acknowledging, "Can't blame the refs. We can't put ourselves in these positions." Crew chief Tony Brothers clarified that the officials deemed the contact incidental, stating, "There was incidental contact on the play," and the league would review the incident. Looking ahead, the Pistons must regroup and secure back-to-back wins, starting with Game 6 in Cleveland on Friday, if they hope to reach the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2008.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-05-14