Detroit Pistons Nation

The 1987–88 Detroit Pistons: First division title since moving to Detroit, and a hard-fought run to the NBA Finals.

The 1987–88 Detroit Pistons season was the 40th season for the Detroit Pistons in the National Basketball Association, and their 30th season in Detroit, Michigan. This was also the team's final season in which they played their home games at the Pontiac Silverdome in suburban Pontiac, Michigan.

Quick Facts

League: National Basketball Association (NBA)
Championships: 3
City: Detroit, Michigan
Founded: 1937
Division: Central Division

Lore & Background

The Pistons finished first in the Central Division with a 54–28 record, earning the second seed in the Eastern Conference. It was the first Division title for the franchise since moving to Detroit in 1957. The team advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1955, when the team was based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. In the Finals, they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in seven games.

Reader's Guide

The Pistons were led in scoring by Adrian Dantley (20.0 ppg), Isiah Thomas (19.5 ppg, 8.4 apg), and Joe Dumars (14.2 ppg). Bill Laimbeer averaged 13.5 points and 10.1 rebounds. Key reserves included Vinnie Johnson, Dennis Rodman, Rick Mahorn, and John Salley. Thomas was selected for the 1988 NBA All-Star Game.

Did You Know?

The Pistons led the NBA in home-game attendance with 1,066,505 at the Pontiac Silverdome during the regular season.
Game 5 of the 1988 NBA Finals was the franchise's last game at the Pontiac Silverdome.
Isiah Thomas scored 43 points in Game 6 of the Finals despite a severe ankle injury.
The Pistons' previous NBA Finals appearance before 1988 was in 1955 as the Fort Wayne Pistons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What role does this group play in team success?

Fans provide essential energy at Little Caesars Arena that boosts player performance during home games. Their financial support through tickets and merchandise also sustains operations for this Original Eight charter team.

Where do members of Pistons Nation gather primarily?

The central hub for the community is Little Caesars Arena, located in downtown Detroit. While they watch remotely from home, the arena serves as the physical heart of their culture.