Dannis Jenkins Earns New Contract With Detroit Pistons

The undrafted player has developed into a crucial bench piece for the Pistons' surprise season.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Dannis Jenkins, an undrafted player who joined the Detroit Pistons last year, has earned a standard NBA contract after impressing with his play off the bench this season. Jenkins originally signed a two-way deal but has become a key part of the Pistons' rotation, averaging 8 points and 3 assists per game. His development has been crucial to the Pistons' surprising 38-13 start, which has them leading the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

The Pistons' unexpected rise to the top of the East has been fueled by the growth of their young roster, and Jenkins' emergence as a reliable bench player is a prime example. As an undrafted free agent, his journey to earning an NBA contract shows the value of player development and the Pistons' ability to uncover hidden talent.

The details

Jenkins originally joined the Pistons last year on a two-way contract, meaning he split time between the NBA team and their G League affiliate. He impressed in the G League, averaging 21 points, 7 assists and 2 steals per game for the Motor City Cruise. This season, Jenkins has carved out a consistent role in the Pistons' rotation, appearing in 42 games and making 7 starts. He's averaging 8 points and 3 assists per game, providing a scoring punch off the bench.

  • Jenkins signed with the Pistons as an undrafted free agent last year.
  • This season, Jenkins has played in 42 games for the Pistons, including 7 starts.

The players

Dannis Jenkins

An undrafted player who joined the Detroit Pistons last year and has developed into a key bench contributor this season, earning a standard NBA contract.

Jalen Duren

A young Pistons player who has been a key part of the team's surprising success this season.

Cade Cunningham

The Pistons' star player who has led the team's rise to the top of the Eastern Conference.

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What they’re saying

“If I'm being honest — and everybody knows I'm a very humble guy — but in college, most of these dudes that got drafted, what was the difference between me and them? For me, going undrafted is insanity to me, literally insanity, and that burns inside of me every single day.”

— Dannis Jenkins (SI.com)

What’s next

Jenkins will look to continue his strong play as the Pistons aim to maintain their lead atop the Eastern Conference standings.

The takeaway

Dannis Jenkins' journey from undrafted free agent to key bench contributor for the surprising Pistons shows the value of player development and the team's ability to uncover hidden talent. His emergence is a testament to his own hard work and the Pistons' commitment to building a well-rounded roster.