Cade Cunningham admits bitter truth that helped Pistons beat Cavs in Game 1

Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons took care of business against the Cleveland Cavaliers, 111-101, in Game 1 of their second-round series on Tuesday at Little Caesars Arena.

Buoyed by the home crowd, the Pistons finished off the Cavaliers with timely buckets from Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Tobias Harris.

Cunningham scored 23 points, although he struggled from the field, going 6-of-19. He added three rebounds, seven assists, and two steals.

After the game, he reiterated the importance of setting the tone in the best-of-seven affair. He also admitted the bitter truth that should fuel them against the Cavaliers.

“It’s one win. We got to come back and do it again,” said Cunningham.

“Got to protect home court. We didn’t do that last series, so we know it’s important this series. They’re a tough team.”

"Got to protect home court, we didn't do that last series so we know it's important this series."

Cade Cunningham after the Pistons' Game 1 win over the Cavs

(via @NBAonNBC)pic.twitter.com/QCAAZ8GMb4

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The Pistons found themselves on the brink of elimination in the first round against the Orlando Magic after dropping two games at home, including Game 1. But they mustered enough strength to climb back from a 3-1 deficit and eliminate the Magic.

Cunningham was sensational versus Orlando, putting up 32.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists. In their last three season-saving wins, he averaged 36.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.6 assists.

Game 2 versus Cleveland is on Thursday.

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