The Detroit Pistons have a long history of success and have featured some of the greatest players in the NBA. Here is a list of the Top 10 Players to ever don the Detroit uniform.
1. Isiah Thomas – Isiah Thomas was drafted by the Pistons with the 2nd overall pick in 1981. He quickly rose to fame, becoming an all-star during his rookie season and leading the Pistons to two championships in 1989 and 1990. In 2000 he was awarded one of basketball’s highest honors, being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
2. Joe Dumars – Joe Dumars joined Isiah Thomas on the Pistons roster in 1985 and quickly became a leader for the team both on and off court over his 14 year tenure with the team. He was named NBA Finals MVP in 1989 and served as president of basketball operations from 2000-2014, which included one championship win in 2004.
3. Dave Bing – Before being drafted by the Pistons in 1966, Dave Bing had already made a name for himself through his collegiate basketball career at Syracuse University. During his time with the Pistons he led them to three consecutive playoffs appearances and was awarded the NBA scoring title in 1968.
4. Bill Laimbeer – Bill Laimbeer joined Isiah Thomas on the Pistons roster in 1982 and quickly established himself as one of their most durable players, playing 11 seasons with Detroit before retiring after winning a third championship with them in 1990. He became known as one of the most prolific rebounders in NBA history, leading the league in rebounds per game four times.
5. Chauncey Billups – Drafted by the Pistons with the third overall pick in 1997, Chauncey Billups was a key part of their championship win in 2004 and earned himself MVP honors for finals series. He is one of only five players to have won both an NBA championship and an Olympic gold medal.
6. Richard Hamilton – Richard Hamilton was drafted by the Pistons with 7th overall pick in 1999. He quickly made a name for himself with his quick scoring ability and during his nine year tenure with the team he averaged over 20 points per game six times, helping lead the team to three consecutive Eastern Conference titles in 2003, 2004, and 2005.
7. Vinnie Johnson – Drafted by the Pistons with the 7th pick in 1981, Vinnie Johnson was a key member of two championship winning teams and is still remembered for his clutch scoring ability in big games. He is one of the few players to be featured on an NBA Finals MVP trophy, being awarded this honor in 1989.
8. Dennis Rodman – Known as “The Worm” during his time with Detroit, Dennis Rodman was drafted by the Pistons with the 27th overall pick in 1986 and quickly became known as one of the best rebounders and defensive players in NBA history. During his time with Detroit he won back-to-back championships and was awarded the Defensive Player of the Year award twice.
9. Bob Lanier – Before being drafted by the Pistons with the 1st overall pick in 1970, Bob Lanier had already won two college National Championships and three Big Ten Championships at St. Bonaventure. During his eight years with Detroit he was a six-time All-Star and averaged over 20 points per game four times in his career.
10. Grant Hill – Drafted by the Pistons with 3rd overall pick in 1994, Grant Hill established himself as one of their most complete players throughout his seven year tenure there, becoming an all-star five times and leading them to back-to-back 50 win seasons in 1997 and 1998. He is still remembered for his impressive athleticism and dynamic play-making ability.