Daniss Jenkins has emerged as an unexpected standout for the Detroit Pistons in the 2025-26 NBA season after being overlooked by every team during the 2024 NBA draft. The former St. John’s point guard’s rise reflects his determined spirit and relentless drive, turning what many saw as a setback into a motivating force. Jenkins’ story underscores the significance of perseverance and grit in professional basketball.
From G League to NBA Spotlight
Jenkins began his professional career on a two-way contract with the Pistons, appearing in only seven NBA games during his rookie year. Starting this season in the G League on a modest contract of $85,000 and with limited NBA playing opportunities, a series of injuries among Pistons starters created openings for Jenkins. Seizing the chance, he quickly made highlights by hitting clutch shots, including a corner three-pointer at the buzzer to force overtime against the Wizards in November and a remarkable 52-foot shot at the third-quarter buzzer against the 76ers shortly after.
The Rising Role of Jenkins in Detroit’s Rotation
Thanks to his consistent scoring off the bench and growing confidence, Jenkins has secured a regular spot in the Pistons’ rotation, culminating in a two-year standard contract earlier this month. The Pistons, currently leading the Eastern Conference, have benefited greatly from Jenkins’ energy and timely scoring efforts, which have helped stabilize a team facing numerous lineup challenges this season.
Guidance and Growth Under Coach Rick Pitino
Rick Pitino, Jenkins’ college coach at St. John’s, has closely followed his progress and is not surprised by his determination and development. After recruiting Jenkins from junior college in Odessa, Texas, Pitino emphasized Jenkins’ quick assimilation of the point guard role and his eagerness to improve.
“Daniss came in as a junior college player and really didn’t know how to play the game as a point guard,”
Pitino explained.
“He listened to every little thing, every little thing, and made himself a great point guard. Then, on top of it, his intensity is amazing, his leadership is amazing and he’s just a sponge to get better. It really is exciting to see this.”
Jenkins credits Pitino for shaping his professional mindset and foundation.
“He’s one of those people that taught me a lot and showed me what it meant to win and be a professional,”
Jenkins shared.
“I knew being with him for the last two years of my college career were going to give me the best chance to become a pro.”
Preparing for a Big Game in a Familiar Setting
Jenkins is looking forward to facing the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, a venue where he has previously played during his collegiate career. The matchup holds additional significance as Jenkins thrives on competition against players taken ahead of him in the draft, including Tyler Kolek, who was selected 34th and traded to the Knicks.
The rivalry dates back to their Big East days when Kolek played for Marquette. In their most recent encounter, Jenkins outperformed Kolek, contributing 18 points in the Pistons’ 118-80 victory over the Knicks, while Kolek scored five points off the bench.
“I just like to take everything personal,”
Jenkins said.
“That’s my biggest thing and that’s my mental edge.”
Embracing the Pistons’ Gritty Identity
Jenkins believes his mentality aligns perfectly with the Pistons’ team culture, which values toughness and resilience.
“I think everything that happened [after] not being drafted was a blessing,”
he remarked.
“This organization mimics who I am. It’s a team built on grit. That’s me.”
His attitude and relentless work ethic reflect the Pistons’ identity as a team fighting hard to compete in one of the NBA’s toughest conferences.
What Lies Ahead for Jenkins and the Pistons
Daniss Jenkins’ journey from undrafted hopeful to essential contributor on a leading Eastern Conference team underscores his tenacity and the importance of seizing opportunities. As the Pistons continue their push toward the playoffs, Jenkins’ development could prove vital to their success. His ability to perform under pressure and his growing role suggest he will remain a key figure in Detroit’s rotation, showing that even overlooked players can become stars through determination and hard work.
