Detroit Pistons Clinch NBA Playoffs Berth

Jalen Duren and Daniss Jenkins lead Pistons to victory over Warriors

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:11pm

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The Detroit Pistons secured their spot in the NBA playoffs with a 115-101 victory over the Golden State Warriors. Jalen Duren scored 23 points and Daniss Jenkins added 22 points to power the Pistons to their 51st win of the season.

Why it matters

The Pistons' playoff berth marks a significant turnaround for the franchise, which has struggled in recent years. This win over the defending champion Warriors solidifies Detroit's status as a rising team in the Eastern Conference.

The details

The Pistons dominated the game from start to finish, leading by as many as 18 points. Duren and Jenkins were the driving forces, with Duren's interior presence and Jenkins' perimeter scoring overwhelming the Warriors' defense.

  • The Pistons secured their 51st win of the 2025-26 NBA season on March 21, 2026.

The players

Jalen Duren

A 23-year-old power forward for the Detroit Pistons, known for his strong interior play and rebounding ability.

Daniss Jenkins

A 25-year-old point guard for the Detroit Pistons, recognized for his scoring prowess and playmaking skills.

Golden State Warriors

The defending NBA champions, led by a core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green.

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What they’re saying

“This win is a testament to the hard work our team has put in all season. We're excited to be heading to the playoffs and can't wait to compete at the highest level.”

— Jalen Duren, Power Forward, Detroit Pistons

“The Pistons played a great game and deserved the win. We'll need to regroup and come back stronger for the playoffs.”

— Stephen Curry

What’s next

The Pistons will await their playoff seeding and opponent as the regular season comes to a close.

The takeaway

The Detroit Pistons' playoff berth is a significant milestone for the franchise, showcasing their growth and potential as a rising team in the NBA. This win over the defending champions demonstrates their ability to compete at the highest level.