Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren first crossed paths six years ago. It happened in Colorado Springs. Duren, then 15, was getting up shots late at night. Cunningham, 17, joked about Duren’s stiff jumper. Neither knew they’d become teammates. Or close friends.
That friendship fuels Detroit’s surge this season. Cunningham, now 24, is playing at an MVP level. Duren, 22, has taken a major leap and is in the Most Improved Player race. Both could be All-Stars in February.
Duren is averaging 19.0 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.9 assists. He’s added off-the-dribble moves and a midrange touch. Cunningham is on pace for career highs across the board: 27.6 points, 9.2 assists, 6.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals.
Their chemistry started off the court. Last summer, Cunningham organized a rugged Colorado trip. No luxury. Small cabins. One TV. Bugs everywhere. Duren said it pushed his comfort zone and expanded his mindset. Cunningham teaches him new things. They talk about history and life. Duren calls him “very intellectual.”
The next adventure came a month later. They traveled to Rome. Two weeks together. Museums. Ancient ruins. Long walks. Constant new experiences. Cunningham said exploring as tourists brought them even closer.
That closeness now shows in games. Their timing. Their reads. Their trust. It’s a major reason the Pistons have climbed the Eastern Conference standings.
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