As the clock stuck zero, Detroit Pistons fans emphatically roared in approval for the 117-97 win over the Indiana Pacers.

They used strong defense and balanced scoring to help break an eleven game losing streak. Veterans Corey Joseph and Rodney McGruder led the scoring charge with 22 and 18 points respectively. After the game Joseph spoke to how they’ve been a source of support for each other in a year little playing time.

“He’s always been helpful for me. He puts his work in behind the scenes when no one is watching… and stays ready.”

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Pistons post game report at LCA after a 117-97 win over the Pacers! #Pistons #NBA pic.twitter.com/CzboeG8vPh

— Woodward Sports Network (@woodwardsports) March 14, 2023

But everyones favorite player tonight was the selfless Eugene Omoruyi. Omoruyi finished with 17 points on 8 of 13 shooting to go with six rebounds a hours after signing his second 10-day contract with the Pistons. Obviously Omoruyi impressed someone in the front office, but his coach has been relieved to see his overall effort.

“The key is his energy,” coach Dwane Casey said. “That’s one thing that I love about him. He set the tone defensively, running the floor. He knows how to play and where to be on offense and defense…He’s about winning. He’s not about himself and plays with pure heart.”

There was a buzz in Little Caesars Arena every time he made a play, that even his teammates took notice of. They’ve continued to commend his work ethic and his go all out playing style.

“He’s been doing an amazing job,” Joseph said. “Whatever has been asked of him he’s done that plus more. He’s come in with extreme energy… He’s been great for us and done an amazing job.”

Eugene Omoruyi doing what Eugene Omoruyi does. #Pistons #NBA pic.twitter.com/7PLLEtnWo6

— Woodward Pistons (@WoodwardPistons) March 14, 2023

Defense

Seeing the Detroit Pistons hold an opponent to under 100 points was another sight for sore eyes. Especially for coach Casey who often states defense is what takes up all their time in practice. Injuries, lack of chemistry, trades and a youth movement have derailed any opportunity at defensive cohesion.

But afterwards Casey cited a word familiar with Lions fans and popularized by coach Dan Campbell. “Grit.” It was certainly obvious from the start of the game the Pistons would have chance to win this one.

“Guys played with grit. That’s all you can ask for with this group that we have together. We have young guys trying to make it that play with grit. I think it surprised Indiana the type of grit we came out with. I was proud of the way we bounced back.”

Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle subsequently felt the Pistons caught them off guard too.

“The difference in the game was obviously the edge that they (Detroit) played with from start to finish, and we simply did not match it. We got down big in the first quarter, tied the second, lost the third, and made a little bit of a run in the fourth. It’s about the power of hard play and I give them credit.

Certainly music to the ears of all Detroit Pistons supporters.