Pistons Clinch Top Seed, Playoff Tickets on Sale

Detroit's NBA team secures No. 1 spot in the East, sets sights on deep playoff run.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:32pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Pistons basketball game, with the players and court broken down into overlapping planes of red, blue, and white shapes.The Pistons' return to the playoffs after a long drought has Detroit fans eagerly awaiting the team's postseason run.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Pistons have clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference and will host the first round of the NBA playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Tickets for the Pistons' postseason games, including potential NBA Finals matchups, are now on sale to the public.

Why it matters

The Pistons' return to the playoffs after a multi-year drought is a major boost for the city of Detroit, which has seen its NBA team struggle in recent seasons. A deep playoff run could generate significant economic activity and community excitement around the team.

The details

The Pistons secured the No. 1 seed in the East with a strong regular season performance, setting them up to host the opening round of the playoffs at their home arena in downtown Detroit. Fans can now purchase tickets for the Pistons' first-round matchup as well as potential later-round games, including the NBA Finals should the team advance that far.

  • The Pistons will open the playoffs at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • Playoff tickets went on sale to the general public on April 10, 2026.

The players

Detroit Pistons

The NBA franchise based in Detroit, Michigan that competes in the Eastern Conference.

Little Caesars Arena

The home arena of the Detroit Pistons, located in downtown Detroit.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to welcome our fans back to the playoffs and give them the opportunity to cheer on this talented Pistons team as they make a run at the championship.”

— Tom Gores, Owner, Detroit Pistons

What’s next

The Pistons will await the results of the NBA's play-in tournament to determine their first-round opponent, which will be announced on April 15, 2026.

The takeaway

The Pistons' return to the playoffs after a multi-year drought is an exciting development for the city of Detroit, which has rallied behind the team's resurgence. A deep postseason run could provide a much-needed boost of energy and economic activity for the community.