DETROIT — When Cade Cunningham fouled out late in the Detroit Pistons’ game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team faced a critical moment with their key guard sidelined and trailing by six points with less than two minutes remaining. However, backup guard Daniss Jenkins, alongside Ausar Thompson’s confidence, energized the Pistons and sparked a comeback. Jenkins played a decisive role in pushing the game into overtime and securing the victory.
Jenkins’ Crucial Contributions Lead Pistons to Victory
Jenkins, in his second year and recently awarded his first standard contract, overcame a difficult night on offense to deliver under immense pressure. His clutch performance included driving to the rim for a banked shot in overtime and assisting Jalen Duren on a crucial layup that helped seal the win. But Jenkins’ most vital contribution came in the fourth quarter when, after drawing a foul in the final seconds, he earned three free throws that tied the game at 114, forcing the extra period.
With Cleveland’s Evan Mobley splitting his free throws moments earlier, Jenkins knew the Cavaliers planned to foul to limit the Pistons’ chances. Anticipating Jaylon Tyson’s foul, Jenkins perfectly timed a shot attempt that, while far from the basket, drew the foul and granted him three shots at the line. Despite the pressure, Jenkins calmly sank all three free throws to roaring applause at Little Caesars Arena.
Handling Pressure with Composure
Jenkins admitted his focus was on staying calm and making the first free throw to relieve the pressure. After missing most of his shots during the game, this opportunity meant a great deal to him.
“I think the biggest thing is just relaxing and breathing and making that first one go down. You see that first one go down, it kind of relieves some pressure out of things.”
— Daniss Jenkins, Pistons guard
He expressed relief and gratitude for contributing when it mattered most despite struggling with his shooting performance. Jenkins also reflected on how important it was not to let the loss weigh on him, given his impact in other moments throughout the season.
“I’m just grateful that I got another opportunity to go out and help my team win. I would have felt bad if we would have lost, cause I didn’t impact the game the way I wanted to.”
— Daniss Jenkins, Pistons guard
Jenkins’ Clutch Performances Are Becoming a Trend
This was not Jenkins’ first game-winning moment. Earlier this season, he hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer against the Washington Wizards to force overtime, a game the Pistons also eventually won. His ability to perform in high-stakes situations is already recognized within the team.
“When the ball is in (his) hands, you can take a sigh of relief.”
— Ausar Thompson, Pistons forward
Jenkins’ coach, J.B. Bickerstaff, also praised his reliability and effectiveness in key moments despite Jenkins going through a difficult scoring patch.
“I hate to say that, but it’s not surprising anymore what he’s done. Whatever the moment’s been, he showed up and he’s been productive for us and effective for us.”
— J.B. Bickerstaff, Pistons head coach
The Team’s Resilience Without Cunningham
The Pistons often face struggles when Cade Cunningham is on the sidelines, whether from injury or fouling out. Nevertheless, Jenkins has shown a capacity to lead during those challenging spells and still meet the team’s demands.
“We’ve been there before. I know how I’ve led this team without Cade, at times. I just try to step up and do my job when my number is called and that’s really what it comes down to.”
— Daniss Jenkins, Pistons guard
Impact on Pistons’ Season Outlook and Team Dynamics
Friday’s overtime victory, driven by Jenkins’ clutch plays, marked only the third overtime game for the Pistons this season, with Jenkins contributing significantly in the two overtime wins. His confidence and ability to withstand pressure provide Detroit with a crucial secondary option to Cunningham, enhancing their competitiveness moving forward.
The win not only helped the Pistons overcome a late-game deficit but also highlighted the team’s depth and mental toughness. With players like Jenkins and Duren stepping up, Detroit’s squad shows resilience, even when star players like Cunningham are unavailable.
This strong finish also supports the Pistons’ aspirations amid a competitive season, demonstrating that role players can take on larger responsibilities when needed, potentially improving the team’s overall performance and chemistry.
Daniss Jenkins wants overtime.
Huge bucket from the Pistons young guard. pic.twitter.com/sd6SQoGzhd
— Jacob Richman (@JacobHRichman) November 11, 2025
