A security guard was injured but no other staff or students were harmed. There were reports of smoke during the incident, the cause of which is still under investigation.
The religious forum represents clergy and religious leaders from across metro Detroit and convene through the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit. They expressed their shock and sorrow because of the alarming event. They also committed to peace, compassion and solidarity with the Jewish community.
Additional headlines for Friday, March 13, 2026
DIA shows Oscar nominated films
The Oscars are this Sunday and to celebrate the Detroit Institute of Arts is having live screening of nominated short films in animation and live action. This annual program brings the short films to the big screen for a viewing of the top films to be recognized at the Academy Awards. For tickets and showtimes go to dia.org.
Sports updates
The Detroit Pistons are back to their winning ways after beating the 76ers 131-109. This is their second win in a row and 47th win in the season. The now face the Memphis Grizzlies Friday night. Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m. at Little Caesers Arena.
Red Wings
The Red Wings suffered a tough loss yesterday to the Tampa Bay Lighting. Their playoff cushion is decreasing as they fall to fourth in the Atlantic Division. They hope to bounce back tomorrow against the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center. Game starts at 8 p.m. EST.
Soccer
And Detroit City FC play their first game of the season tomorrow against Brooklyn FC. The game kicks off at 4 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium.
313 Day events
Happy 313 Day to you and me and all the Detroiters from Rouge Park to Gross Pointe, from 8 mile to the Detroit River. There are a few events going on to celebrate Detroit.
Michigan Central Station is curating a four hour celebration of Detroit music featuring live performance and a mix of hip hop, soul, electronic and more. WDET host DJ Wajeed of The Boulevard is the curator of vibes and music for the evening. It starts at 6pm and ends at 10 p.m.
Also, the restaurant Tocororo is hosting a trivia night tonight from 6-9 p.m. You can bring your own team or show up solo. Prizes and bragging rights are on the line.
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Support local journalism.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
According to a Detroit Free Press report, Gov Gretchen Whitmer’s 2027 budget proposes $139.2 million dollars in fee increases. Some of these user fees for government services and licenses haven’t changed in decades.
There will be higher fees for things such as hunting, fishing licenses, boat registrations, and more. During her state of the state address, Whitmer asked Congress to pass her budget in June before the July 1st deadline.
Additional headlines for Friday, March 6, 2026
Sports updates
NBA
The Pistons fell to the Spurs again last night 106-121.
They hope to bounce back against the Brooklyn Nets tomorrow at Little Caesars arena. Tipoff is at 6:00 p.m.
NHL
The Red Wings face the Florida Panthers today at 7:00 p.m. as they try to climb back in the Atlantic division. They are currently sitting at 3rd place with 35 wins and 20 losses.
Club Soccer
Detroit City FC revealed their 2026 season uniforms during their organization event this week. This season’s kits draws inspiration from Detroit’s techno and electronic music scenes as well as the Detroit Red Wings.
The dark kit home uniforms are dark red to maintain the traditional La Rouge Theme, with red tonal wave pattern, gold numbers and white logos of the Spirit of Detroit. The light kit nearly copies a reversed version of last year’s home jersey, with maroon sleeves, salmon colored stripes, and maroon and taupe shorts.
To see their uniforms go to their website: detcityfc.com. You can start seeing these uniforms in action as the team kicks off their first match on Saturday, March 14 at Keyworth Stadium.
Free physical therapy clinic
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers is hosting a free in clinic event on March 19, 2026 at 5 p.m. to celebrate their one year anniversary.
The centers offer personalized physical therapy, balance training, vestibular rehabilitation, and auto injury care. They are focused on evidence-based rehab to help patients recover faster and improve their overall mobility.
Attendees will receive 20% off some products at the event. The event will be held at 30770 Southfield Rd. in Southfield.
Daylight saving time
Daylight saving time is this Sunday, March 8. It’s the annual period when we “spring forward” and adjust our clocks one hour forward.
Daylight saving time occurs at 2 a.m., when local time instantly jumps to 3am. As part of the yearly ritual, the sunrise and sunset will be one hour later, we’ll have more light in the evening and a later sunrise in the morning.
The push to stop daylight saving time was approved by the US Senate in the 2022 Sunshine Protection Act but did not pass the House of Representatives. A 2023 version didn’t go anywhere in Congress as well.
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Support local journalism.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
Metro Detroiters are paying much more for gasoline than they did a few days ago. The average price of a gallon of regular gasoline in metro Detroit is $3.19 today—that’s up 6 cents from Tuesday, and 21 cents from a week ago.
The war in Iran has dramatically pushed up the price of crude oil in the days since the U.S. and Israel first bombed Iran on Saturday. And when the price of crude oil rises, the price of gasoline—which is made from crude oil—also rises. Gas stations are also starting their annual change to the summer blend of fuel, which is more expensive.
To save a little extra gas, remember to make sure your tires are at the proper air pressure, accelerate smoothly and avoid jack-rabbit starts and stops. Take that extra junk out of your trunk so you’re not carrying excess weight and don’t buy premium gasoline unless your vehicle’s manufacturer requires it.
Additional headlines from Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Whitsett not running for re-election
State Representative Karen Whitsett says she’s not running for re-election this year. The Detroit Democrat tells Gongwer News Service that her decision was based on her faith.
Whitsett has missed several months of service in the State House. She lost a primary for Detroit City Council last August. Whitsett had caused political controversy during her term in office, often supporting Republican legislation.
She says she will not run for any other political office in the future.
Heidelberg Archives to be stored at Reuther Library
The Heidelberg Project says it has begun a partnership with the Walter Reuther Library to store its archives.
A news release says the collection includes planning files, photographs and organizational records among other material. All of it will be permanently stored at the library, which is located on Wayne State University’s campus.
The internationally-recognized art installation was founded in Detroit’s McDougall-Hunt neighborhood in 1986 by artist Tyree Guyton.
Detroit Piston Cade Cunningham has been named the NBA’s Eastern Conference Player of the Month for February. Cunningham averaged 25.4 points and 9.9 assists per game. He was the top pick in the 2021 NBA draft.
Knuckles traded to Houston
The Detroit Lions traded running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans.
Montgomery became a fan favorite—nicknamed Knuckles—after joining the Lions as a free agent in 2023. He and Jahmyr Gibbs formed one of the best running back duos in the NFL. But Montgomery’s productivity dipped last year as Gibbs got more opportunities to run the ball.
As a result of the trade, Detroit received offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a 2026 fourth-round draft pick and a 2027 seventh-round pick from Houston. The Lions also freed up more than $3 million in salary cap space.
The team missed the playoffs last season for the first time since 2022. They finished with a record of nine wins and eight losses.
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The Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers had two thrilling matchups over the past week, splitting the results and offering a sneak peak of what could be a matchup in this year’s playoffs.
Both matchups have featured intense play, but off the court the Cavaliers drew some attention as cleveland.com reported an anonymous Cleveland player said after Friday’s game that the Pistons “aren’t in our class.”
The words caught some attention on social media after the game and before Tuesday’s matchup, coach J.B. Bickerstaff was asked for his response.
The second-year Pistons coach didn’t need many words to react.
“I have no response,” Bickerstaff said. “If you mean it, don’t say it anonymously.”
It’s no surprise that a playoff caliber team like Cleveland — or Detroit for that matter — would have plenty of confidence in their ability to compete.
The Pistons (45-15) firmly believe the Eastern Conference runs through them right now as they’ve held tight to the top spot since early November. But the Cavaliers (39-24) have now backed up some of their words by winning the rematch with a returning James Harden.
To suggest the two teams are separated by a considerable margin is hard to give much credence, given they split the regular-season series 2-2 and the past two games have come down to the very end.
There are no more regular-season meeting for the Central Division foes, so if there’s going to be more to this saga, it’s going to come in the playoffs.
With the Pistons holding the No. 1 seed and Cleveland currently the No. 4, a second-round playoff matchup would be in the cards if the first round went chalk.
It’s hard to think of a better way to decide which team is a class above than a playoff series.
Detroit Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, left, talks with referee Ed Malloy during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Phoenix Suns Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, in Detroit. (DUANE BURLESON — AP Photo, file)
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Cade Cunningham had 29 points and 11 assists, Tobias Harris scored 23 points and the NBA-leading Detroit Pistons beat the Orlando Magic 106-92 on Sunday night for their sixth straight road victory.
The Pistons improved to 45-14, winning for the eighth time in nine games. They have won 10 of 11 on the road and are 21-7 overall away from home.
Jalen Duren added 16 points and 10 rebounds for Detroit.
Paolo Banchero led Orlando with 24 points and 11 rebounds, but also had nine turnovers. Tristan da Silva added 19 points and Desmond Bane had 17, but the Magic shot 30.7% in the second half and experienced a third-quarter collapse for the second time in three nights. They squandered a 19-point lead in less than four minutes in a loss to Houston on Friday night.
After missing their first 15 3-point attempts, the Pistons were down 57-50 at halftime. They moved ahead for the first time on a 3-pointer by Harris midway through the third quarter, and took command with an 11-0 run.
Detroit forward Isaiah Stewart served the final game of a seven-game suspension for an altercation at Charlotte on Feb. 9. Magic guard Anthony Black missed a game for the first time this season, sitting out with a strained right quad.
Up next
Pistons: At Cleveland on Tuesday night.
Magic: Host Washington on Tuesday night.
— By DICK SCANLON, Associated Press
Orlando Magic forward Tristan da Silva (23) and Detroit Pistons guard Ausar Thompson (9) go after a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, March 1, 2026, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
UAW Stellantis workers are reportedly disappointed because they are not getting profit sharing checks from 2025. This follows the company facing a multibillion dollar deficit last year. It’s also the first time Stellantis hasn’t provided a profit-sharing bonus since the recession.
The Big Three has faced obstacles because of tariff uncertainty, Electric vehicle whiplash, interest rates and more, but Ford and GM still provided a profit-sharing checks to their employees. Stellantis says that it expects 2026 and its expanding product wave to bring profitable growth in North America.
Additional headlines for Friday, Feb. 27, 2016
Personnel shortage in behavioral health field
A new report from the Michigan Health Council shows that Michigan doesn’t have enough opportunities for students to become behavioral health care workers. This is contributing to a shortage of certified school-based mental health professionals across the state, according to the council.
This shortage puts a large workload on the personnel in this field. In the 2023-2024 school year Michigan had about 600 students per school counselor, over a thousand students per school psychologists, and almost 500 students per social worker. The report goes on to share that improving vocational programs could introduce thousands of high school students to fulfilling careers in behavioral health.
Sports updates
NBA
The Detroit Pistons face the Cleveland Cavaliers today at Little Ceasars Arena but—like their game against the Thunder—the opposing team is without their best players, with both Donovan Mitchall out with groin injuries and James Harden questionable with a thumb injury.
The Pistons are playing without their full strength with Isaiah Stweart out again because of his involvement in the fight with the Charlotte Hornets on Feb. 9. This is his sixth game of his seven game suspension.
Tonight’s game tip off is at 7 p.m. with a following away game against the Magic on Sunday, March 1.
NHL
The Red Wings face the Carolina Hurricanes tomorrow Feb. 28 at the Lenovo Center. The Red Wings are currently second in the Atlantic Divison with 34 wins and 19 losses. Game starts at 7 p.m.
Blueberry recall
More than 55,000 pounds of frozen blueberries, some of which were shipped to Michigan, have been recalled because of possible listeria contamination.
The Oregon Potato Company was the distributor of the recalled berries. This shipment was also sent to Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin and Canada.
The FDA recalled it initially on Feb. 12 and classified the recall as a Class 1 recall on Feb. 24, which means there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
Go to your local grocery store to see if your purchase of frozen blueberries was in the mix.
Handmaid’s Tale in Detroit
And the dystopian world of the Handmaid’s Tale comes to the Detroit Opera House. The play, once a hit television series and novel, is a chilling look into a future where America’s democracy morphs into a religious tyranny.
There are showings on Sunday March 1, Thursday March 5 and Saturday March 7.
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Support local journalism.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
Wayne State University has a new president. The school’s Board of Governors elected Richard Bierschbach as the 14th president of the university at a special meeting Tuesday.
Bierschbach has served as Wayne State’s interim president since the departure of Kimberly Andrews Espy last September. Before becoming interim president, he was the dean of Wayne State’s law school. While there, Bierschbach helped the law school rise from a national ranking of 100th in 2017 to 55th best in the U.S. now.
Additional headlines for Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026
Tlaib heckles Trump during State of the Union
Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib heckled President Donald Trump during his State of the Union address Tuesday night. The Detroit Democrat called the president a liar during his remarks. She wore an anti-ICE button, as well.
Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar also jeered at Trump during the event. Trump responded by saying the Democrats should be ashamed of themselves.
Whitmer to deliver State of the State tonight
Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivers her final State of the State address Wednesday. She’s expected to tout her accomplishments over the past year and lay out her vision for the future of Michigan.
Whitmer is expected to spend a portion of her speech talking about the importance of creating more affordable housing options for Michiganders. That includes plans for a new affordable housing tax credit.
You can hear the State of the State tonight at 7 p.m. on 101.9 WDET FM or at WDET.org.
Flags lowered to half-staff to honor Rev. Jesse Jackson
U.S. and Michigan flags across the state will fly at half-staff Thursday and Friday. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered the action in honor of the Rev. Jesse Jackson.
Jackson died last week at age 84. In a statement, Whitmer says, “Rev. Jackson had a special connection to Michigan and especially the city of Detroit.”
BET reports Jackson will lie in state at the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition in Chicago tomorrow and Friday. A private homegoing service will take place on March 7. That event will be livestreamed.
Ford recalls more than 400,000 SUVs
Ford is recalling almost 414,000 Explorer SUVs because of possible steering problems.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says certain vehicles from the 2013 through 2017 model years could have faulty rear suspension toe links that could break. The problem could make it hard to steer the vehicle.
Affected owners will be notified by mail. Repairs will be made at no cost to consumers.
First place Pistons face Oklahoma City
The Detroit Pistons play the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight in a battle of NBA first place teams. The Pistons are first in the Eastern Conference with a record of 42 wins and 14 losses. The Thunder hold the top spot in the Western Conference with 45 wins and 14 losses.
Game time at Little Caesars Arena is 7:30 p.m. tonight.
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CHICAGO (AP) — Jalen Duren had 26 points and 13 rebounds in his return from a suspension to help the Detroit Pistons take charge in the second half and roll to a 126-110 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night.
Cade Cunningham added 18 points, 13 assists and nine rebounds to narrowly miss his 15th career triple-double as the Pistons won their fifth straight game. Tobias Harris also had 18 points and Duncan Robinson added 17 for league-leading Detroit (42-13), which dealt Chicago its season-high eighth straight loss.
Duren helped establish Detroit’s dominance after sitting out two games for his role in a fight at Charlotte on Feb. 9. He got a technical foul in this one for casually dropping the ball on the face of Chicago’s Nick Richards in the third quarter while Richards was down on the floor.
Josh Giddey had 27 points on 10 for 16 shooting — including five 3-pointers — but the Bulls couldn’t keep pace with the Pistons after trailing only 53-50 at the half. Matas Buzelis, Jalen Smith and Issac Okoro each added 15 as the Bulls committed 23 turnovers leading to 28 Detroit points.
Detroit outmuscled Chicago, scoring 68 points in the paint, compared to the Bulls 38. The Pistons had 26 on second chances and Chicago just 16.
The Bulls played without Jaden Ivey, who will be out two weeks with knee soreness after playing just four games with Chicago following a trade from Detroit. Anfernee Simons left the game with a left wrist injury
Bulls coach Billy Donovan was back on the bench after missing a game to attend his father’s funeral.
The Pistons led by no more than six points in a tight, scrappy first half. Detroit outscored Chicago 44-26 in third quarter and opened the lead to as much as 28.
Up next
Pistons: Host San Antonio on Monday
Bulls: Host New York Knicks on Sunday.
— By MATT CARLSON, Associated Press
Chicago Bulls forward Jalen Smith (25) ,right, fouls Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Melissa Tamez)
The City of Detroit and the Cass Corridor Neighborhood Development Corporation celebrated the groundbreaking of the Greystone Senior Living Apartments this week in the heart of midtown.
The new four-story, 49-unit affordable housing development is designed for seniors earning 30-80% of the area median income. The development corporation says this development is part of their 40 year commitment to preserve affordability and to advance community ownership in the Cass Corridor. The new construction is on a site that has been vacant for 20 years.
Mayor Sheffield said she is proud that this is her first groundbreaking of her administration. “Seniors have been near and dear to my heart. My 12 years serving on the City Council…I actually represented the highest amount of senior buildings in the state of Michigan in my district. I know firsthand the needs of our seniors. I do believe that it is important as a city that we are building housing for all income levels and all stages of life.”
According to the city, this project is set to be completed in 2027, and welcoming residents shortly after.
Additional headlines for Friday, Feb. 20, 2026
Kandies Mini Mart
The Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and city leaders celebrated the opening of Kandies Mini Mart. This is the first Green Grocer Program ribbon cutting since the program relaunched in 2024. This section will live in Blackwell’s Kandies sandwich shop and catering service which is located at the Durfee Innovation Society. The mini mart will provide fresh produce in the Dexter Linwood Neighborhood.
Weather forecast
This time of year, the weather feels like it cycles through all of the options Mother Nature has to offer and this weekend is no different. According to the National Weather Service Michigan is expected to cycle through hail, fog, winds, rain, and snow. So, say goodbye to the warm front we’ve been experiencing and hello again to your hats and winter jackets as colder air moves in.
The weather service also issued a wind advisory until 9 p.m. tonight. There is an 80% chance of snow on Sunday and the temperature this weekend is expected to be around the low 40’s and upper 30’s.
Stay strong Detroit, Spring will come… eventually.
Sports
Winter Olympics
This is the last weekend of the 2026 Winter Olympics and Governor Gretchen Whitmer made a surprise visit at this year’s games. She claimed Michigan has more Olympians competing in this year’s Olympics than any other state and also noted that California’s Governor Newsome had challenged her on the fact. The Winter Olympics final ceremony is on Sunday February 22.
NBA
Last night the Pistons had another dominant win against the New York Knicks 126—111. Cade “THE ALL STAR” Cunningham was two rebounds short of a triple-double with 42 points and 13 assists as the Pistons completed their season sweep of the Knicks. There is even talk of MVP consideration for the young star. The Pistons next game is against the Bulls tomorrow at the United Center. Tip off is at 8 p.m. EST.
Black author expo
Last but not least, this weekend Detroit Book City is having their 10th annual African American Family book expo on Saturday February 21 from noon to 5 p.m. This event celebrates Black History Month by having a meet and greet with over 40 independent Black authors for all ages.
The event is free with books available to purchase. This is all going down at the Village Hall in West Detroit.
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Support local journalism.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons are different than most modern NBA teams. They’re just fine with that.
It’s only Year 2 with coach J.B. Bickerstaff and president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon leading the franchise ahead, but their rapid rise to success is undeniable.
They took a team in the dregs of the league and made the playoffs in their first year and have held the top spot in the Eastern Conference since early November.
Their culture is unmistakable, focused on team accountability and an imposing defensive effort that has stifled some of the best players in the NBA this season.
So when they had a modest NBA trade deadline that involved one deal — trading Jaden Ivey to the Chicago Bulls to bring in Kevin Huerter — it didn’t look exactly like a potential finals contender going all-out for a championship.
That’s not how the Pistons believe they get to the peak of the NBA or build a team that can compete for years to come.
“It wasn’t just, for us, let’s take a shot for one year and have that impact us going forward. Philosophically that didn’t fit,” Langdon said during a press conference on Friday. “If there was a move we could make, a carry-forward move that not only helped us this year, but we could carry that thing forward. That’s kind of what we were looking for.”
The Pistons were linked to countless players at the deadline as a team with multiple expiring contracts to salary match almost any player potentially coming in for the short term and all of their first-round draft capital for the next seven years.
On paper, the Pistons could use another high-level scorer to work with star Cade Cunningham or an elite three-point shooter to help spark the offense.
Instead they potentially boosted their first-rounder in 2026 with a pick swap as part of the Ivey deal and added a rotation player in Huerter, whose gravity could help open things up on the court.
Huerter’s a decent threat from deep as a career 37% shooter, joining the NBA’s 19th-ranked three-point shooting team. His numbers dipped this season without a true playmaker beside him in Chicago, but there’s still potential for the 27-year-old to be impactful.
The moves that looked good on their face — like trying to add a player like the Brooklyn Nets’ Michael Porter Jr. — to building the prototypical finals competitor didn’t seem to interest the Pistons all that much.
“I think there’s different ways to skin a cat,” Langdon said. “And I think we’ve been doing it different, doing it on the defensive end and really getting after it. And I think we’ll continue to do that.”
Even though the last seven NBA champions have been from different teams, the Pistons don’t truly match any of them.
Their defense is top of mind, leading the NBA in steals, blocks and, yes, personal fouls with their unrelenting physical play.
It’s leading to an unusual level of success. Since 2000, only two teams — the Indiana Pacers in 2023-24 and Utah Jazz four times in the 2000s — have led the NBA in fouls per game and finished with a record above .500.
No team in NBA history has had a winning percentage over 70% while leading the league in fouls. The Pistons own a 38-13 (74.5%) record coming off a lopsided win over the New York Knicks on Friday.
Their defensive focus and energy is the heartbeat of the team and what they have confidence will make them unique for years to come.
“Not everybody has to do it the same way,” Bickerstaff said Tuesday. “I think that’s where our league has come to a point where everybody’s just trying to follow one example and do things just one way because it’s easier, right? It’s easier to justify.
“They do it and it works, so (others) can do it. But it’s not a matter of that for us. We’re confident in the group of guys that we have that, no matter what situation you put them in, they’re going to be competitive and give themselves an opportunity. ”
Offensively, Bickerstaff understands the analytics behind being a high-volume three-point shooting team. Four of the last five NBA champions were in the top 10 for three-point attempts per game and the Pistons are currently 28th.
But when it comes down to winning games, his approach remains keyed in on being consistent in finding layups, dunks, paint attempts and mid-range shots because if they shoot them well enough, it’s more valuable to match with Detroit’s brand of defense that limits possessions.
“We’re not going to panic and try to be somebody else because that’s just not the way we’re built,” Bickerstaff said.
Langdon said there were some deals out there at the deadline that did tempt him, but between other teams pulling out and the Pistons’ staff saying “now’s not the right time for that” they didn’t get particularly close to doing any other business.
The Pistons are keen on continuing to develop their young group helmed by Cunningham, All-Star center Jalen Duren and rising defensive star Ausar Thompson. Langdon plans to use the end of the season and however deep Detroit can go in the playoffs as a jumping off point after getting another season of data and experience with this group.
Cunningham is the only player on the team locked up long term and contract negotiations are coming up soon for Duren and Thompson.
The Pistons are starting to see what that trio can accomplish and they could be the core of Detroit’s future. That path forward meant the Pistons’ front office would be frugal with their commitments in the short term and leads to them going at this year’s playoffs with something of a by-committee approach to a lot of their offense.
“Sometimes it will be difficult. Sometimes we’ll have to be creative. I think what’s been good for our team is different people step up every night,” Langdon said. “Cade, obviously, has been consistent. (Duren) has taken a step. We have to have other guys be aggressive and step up at different times. We’ll have to be creative in the way we play. But I think our identity has always been defense and we can’t stop doing that.”
Detroit’s unwavering confidence in being defense first has them 4.5 games ahead of the closest team in the Eastern Conference and a real threat to reach its first NBA Finals since 2005.
For them, it wasn’t the time to introduce a heavy-hitter at the trade deadline.
The Pistons want to dig in and let the players who have bought into their distinctive style and put them in this prime position to get the opportunity to show just how far they can take it this season.
Detroit Pistons president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon addresses the media during the NBA basketball team’s media day, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, in Detroit. (JOSE JUAREZ — AP Photo)
Subzero wind chills are expected this weekend as the National Weather Service has issued a cold weather advisory for southeast Michigan.
Even though today’s high will reach about 35 degrees, overnight lows are expected to dip well below zero with wind chill. The Weather Service says frostbite on exposed skin can happen in under 30 minutes.
The advisory is in effect until around noon Saturday.
A warmup is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, with temperatures trending above normal and highs and lows climbing out of the teens.
Additional headlines for February 6, 2026
Detroit opens shelters and respite sites
Until then, the city of Detroit is offering standby shelters and expanded library respite hours to protect residents from the deep freeze.
In partnership with Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, the sites will operate from 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, through noon Monday, Feb. 9.
If you are concerned about someone’s safety, call 911 to request a welfare check.
More information, including locations and hours, is available at detroitmi.gov.
Big Sean and Usher youth facility opens at Michigan Central
A $1 million investment in an entertainment production facility for Detroit youth from Big Sean and music artist Usher is now official. Leaders held a ribbon cutting this week for the new space.
The facility is part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Detroit and is located on the fifth floor of Michigan Central Station.
The new hub includes creative technology studios, special effects labs and a literary and storytelling lounge. It is designed for young people ages 14 to 24.
Programming is set to begin Sunday, Feb. 9.
Sports
The Pistons lost at home Thursday to the Washington Wizards, 126 to 117.
Detroit looks to bounce back tonight against the New York Knicks at Little Caesars Arena. Tipoff is 7:30 p.m.
Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday. Even if the Lions are not playing, keep an eye out for new commercials from Detroit based organizations Rocket Companies and Redfin. Kickoff is 6:30 p.m. Eastern.
Book event: Lachi discusses I Identify as Blind
Grammy-nominated artist Lachi will speak at an event Monday, Feb. 9, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. for her new book, I Identify as Blind: A Brazen Celebration of Disability Culture, Identity, and Power.
The event includes a conversation with disability advocate Tameka Citchen Spruce.
Lachi was born legally blind and identifies as neurodivergent. The book explores her experiences, with the goal of challenging stereotypes and empowering people with disabilities.
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SAN FRANCISCO — For six years, Detroit Pistons fans have grown accustomed to watching Isaiah Stewart serve as an enforcer and defensive anchor. In the first 46 games of this season, Stewart has elevated his production on defense even more.
He is leading the league’s second-best defense and is currently in the running for several defensive awards. While registering a career-best average of 1.9 blocks per game, Stewart ranks sixth in total rejections with 78. He leads the NBA in defended field-goal percentage at the rim, holding his opponents to 43.0% shooting.
Stewart will be honored with a bobblehead giveaway before the Pistons’ home game against the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. But the bobblehead won’t feature Stewart defending the rim. Instead, it’s Stewart riding a tractor and dressed in farmer’s overalls.
“This bobblehead represents my love and passion for farming. I have a tractor that I operate and use on my land,” Stewart told The Detroit News. “I’m interested in all different kinds of crops. If my mind isn’t on basketball, my mind is on farming. I am always researching something about farming every single day. I feel like it’s my calling.”
In southern California, Stewart owns two agricultural properties called Paraiso De La Luz, which is Spanish for “Paradise of Light.” His main hub focuses on producing tropical and subtropical fruits such as figs, finger limes, grapes, kumquats, mangos, passion fruit and pomegranates. Two hours down the road, he owns a desert hub that solely produces dates, in partnership with Sam Cobb Farms.
During the offseason, Stewart works diligently on his crops. When the Pistons are in season, however, he relies on his employees and the property manager for daily updates.
“It speaks to his character, his intelligence. He’s a guy who wants to make the world better. He understands what the world needs, in terms of farming and the environment. I think it is amazing,” Jalen Duren said to The Detroit News. “He’s always coming in here, talking about the new cows he’s got, or whatever new trees he planted. I think what he’s doing is great. I’m inspired.”
Stewart’s passion for farming began at his childhood home in Rochester, N.Y. He has fond memories of watching his father, Dela Stewart, tending to the family’s backyard garden. His father grew a variety of vegetables, including cucumbers, greens and tomatoes. Stewart’s favorite part of watching his father was seeing him transform his work into delightful meals.
The hard work that the elder Stewart put into the family garden instilled a strong work ethic in his son, which ultimately helped him reach the NBA. However, he could never have predicted that his efforts would later inspire his son to pursue farming as a second career more than 20 years later.
“He had a garden in our backyard. Every year, as soon as the weather got good enough, he would go back there and clean it up. Uproot everything. Make a fence with sections of different plants,” Stewart said. “I know he is proud of what I am doing. With him being from Jamaica, and his father did it – that is who he got it from – and now, I’m doing it.”
Stewart’s upbringing and passion have laid the groundwork for his farming career as he strives to be a pioneer in the industry.
Black farmers once dominated the agricultural business, but over several decades, the demographic has significantly diminished. As he continues to inspire a generation of NBA hopefuls in Detroit, Stewart hopes his agricultural work will increase the number of Black farmers nationwide.
Stewart intends to sell his harvest in grocery stores one day to provide consumers with high-quality produce. It’s his way of bringing better fruits and vegetables to consumers, who might be missing out because of infrastructure problems some farmers face when trying to deliver their crops to supermarkets.
“My family loves it. They see how invested I am in it and how much I care about it,” Stewart said. “They know what I’m striving to be. I am not doing this for fun. I’m doing it because I want to be one of the best farmers in the world when it is all said and done.”
Detroit Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart, left, and Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun, right, jostle for position during a free throw in the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, in Houston. (ERIC CHRISTIAN SMITH — AP Photo, file)
Vitti says immigration concerns are keeping kids home
During his State of the Schools address, Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Nikolai Vitti said immigration concerns are contributing to lower student attendance. While there have been no reports of immigration agents entering Detroit school buildings, some families remain afraid to send their children to school.
Attendance declines began in January 2025, around the start of the Trump administration, and have continued into this year. Last year, 61 percent of Detroit students were considered chronically absent, meaning they missed more than 10 percent of the school year. Vitti said immigration concerns played a role in those numbers.
The district recently released an informational pamphlet for families who may have concerns about immigration status, offering guidance and connections to resources.
No charges in deaths of two children in Detroit parking garage
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that no charges will be filed against a Detroit mother whose two children died last year in a parking garage.
An autopsy determined the children died from carbon monoxide poisoning rather than hypothermia. The mother, who was experiencing homelessness at the time, had sought shelter in December 2023, but records indicate a city shelter was unable to reach her.
In response to recent dangerously cold temperatures, Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield is urging residents to seek shelter if needed. The city reports approximately 1,700 shelter beds are available for families. Sheffield emphasized that no Detroiter should be without access to warmth during extreme cold.
Pro sports update
NBA: The Detroit Pistons lost to the Phoenix Suns 114–96. The team remains on the West Coast and will face the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in San Francisco tonight at 10 p.m. Eastern.
NHL: The Detroit Red Wings fell to the Washington Capitals 4–3. The Red Wings are second in the Atlantic Division and will take on the Colorado Avalanche tomorrow, Saturday, January 31, at 1 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena.
Local sports: Detroit athlete makes NIL history
Chandler Park Academy basketball player Jeremiah Jackson has become the first high school athlete in Michigan to sign a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal.
The Michigan High School Athletic Association recently expanded its rules to allow high school athletes to earn money through endorsements, social media promotions, and related opportunities. Jackson’s NIL deal is with Flamz Pizzeria, a restaurant located on East Warren Avenue in Detroit.
Events and weekend picks
Virtual event on the American Revolution The Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit is hosting a free virtual discussion on Monday examining the American story 250 years after the American Revolution.
The event will be led by Bob Brutell, Adjunct Professor of Religious Studies and History at the University of Detroit Mercy, and Dr. Kyle Roberts, Executive Director of the Congregational Library and Archives. “Remembering the Unfinished American Revolution” takes place Monday, February 2, at 1 p.m. Registration details are available online.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra: Epic Film Scores The Detroit Symphony Orchestra presents a concert featuring iconic film music, conducted by Steve Reineke. The program highlights legendary composers and scores from films including Psycho, The Godfather, Gladiator, Star Trek, and Star Wars. Performances:
The Saunderson Brothers at Big Pink Big Pink hosts a House and Techno night featuring The Saunderson Brothers. Organizers promise a high-energy set packed with crowd favorites. The event runs tonight from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. More info: bigpinklovesyou.com
DETROIT (AP) — Kevin Durant scored 32 points as the Houston Rockets ended the Detroit Pistons’ four-game winning streak with a 111-104 victory Friday night.
Durant averages 30.6 points in 32 career games against the Pistons – his highest average against any other team. He added seven rebounds and three assists in 40 minutes without a turnover.
Alperen Sengun scored 19 points and Reed Shepherd added 18 points for the Rockets, who have won four of five. Amen Thompson had 15 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for Houston, which had lost five straight on the road.
Jalen Duren led Detroit with 18 points and seven rebounds, but Detroit’s other four starters combined for 37 points on 13-of-35 shooting (37.1%).
Houston outscored Detroit 34-20 in the third quarter to turn a tie game into an 86-72 lead. Durant and Sheppard combined for 18 points in the quarter on 7-for-8 shooting.
Detroit got within 87-80 with a four-point possession early in the fourth. Cade Cunningham missed, but Jae’Sean Tate was called for a flagrant foul when he undercut Ron Holland II as he went for the rebound. Holland made both free throws and Duren dunked off a Cunningham lob.
After a Rockets turnover, Isaiah Stewart’s three-point play made it 87-83, but the Pistons couldn’t get even.
Josh Okogie’s 3-pointer made it 101-93 with 5:19, and Houston moved the lead back to double figures on Shepherd’s layup with 2:04 left.
Durant had 18 points in the first half, but the Pistons had a 36-24 edge in points in the paint to keep the game tied at 52 going into the third quarter.
Houston’s defense stepped up early in the third quarter, holding Cunningham and Duncan Robinson to two shot attempts in the first eight minutes. The Rockets outshot Detroit 68.4% (13-19) to 36.4% (8—22) in the period.
Up next
Rockets: Host the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night.
Pistons: Host the Sacramento Kings on Sunday afternoon.
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) lays up a shot against Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (30) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)
City of Detroit is partnering with organizations to extend stand-by shelters and respite locations due to the extreme cold coming this weekend.
The Neighborhood Service Organization will open from Friday Jan 23 at 6 p.m. to Tuesday, Jan. 27 at noon. This site can only accept single adults.
Pope Francis Center is sheltering people through Jan. 27 at noon as well. They are also only accepting single adults. And the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries is operating through Jan. 27 at noon. They are accepting families and single adults.
Residents seeking relief from the bitter cold may also visit Detroit recreation centers and public library branches during regular operating hours.
Any individuals sleeping outside and needing help after hours can go to a police precinct to be connected with an outreach team for help with overnight services.
Additional headlines for Friday, Jan. 23, 2026
Due to the deep freeze this weekend, the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Center are closed today and Saturday. Animal care staff worked to ensure the animals continued to receive the care they need. The parks hope to be open on Sunday, but they will monitor the weather forecast before making that decision.
The National Weather service issued a cold weather advisory for all of southeast Michigan that lasts until Saturday morning. The agency says exposed skin could be damaged in as little as half an hour, and they say pet owners should not leave their animals outdoors.
Wayne County Juvenile Detention hosts open interviews
The Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility is hosting open interviews for two critical roles from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24 at the Wayne County Criminal Justice Center. They will host a hiring event for individuals interested in becoming one of their Juvenile Detention Specialists or a Crisis Response Team Specialist.
The Detroit Pistons are on a 4 game winning streak and hope to extend that today when they face the Houston Rockets. Tipoff for the game is at 7 p.m.
NFL
Detroit Lions offensive tackle Dan Skipper announced his retirement via Instagram on Thursday. Skipper was dealing with a lower back injury all season. He said he will pursue coaching in his future.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago is performing at the Detroit Opera House Jan. 24-25. The program will feature works from contemporary choreographers and Tony Award–winning Broadway choreographer Bob Fosse.
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Support local journalism.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
Halfway through the 2025-2026 NBA season, the Pistons look like a strong contender in the Eastern Conference. The team has only 10 losses through 42 games, which is the second best record in the league.
This sort of performance rivals the championship days of the early 2000s.
Omari Sankofa II, the Pistons beat writer for the Detroit Free Press and co-host of the Pistons Pulse podcast, joined the show to explain what’s fueling the team’s success and outline the keys to sustaining it through the rest of the season.
Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield took office on New Year’s Day. But she’s celebrating her achievement with a public swearing-in ceremony this week.
Detroit City Council members, police commissioners and the City Clerk will also take part. The ceremony at the Detroit Opera House features poetry and music performances as well.
Sheffield is the first woman ever elected mayor of Detroit. She says her team is developing an action plan for her first 100 days with input from the community. But she’s also retaining several key officials from the past mayoral administration including the corporation counsel—the city’s top lawyer—and Detroit’s fire commissioner.
Sheffield also announced today that the city will join a program that gives financial support to pregnant women and infants. The city has already raised 9 million dollars to participate in RX Kids. It’s looking for $2 million to fund the program for 3 years.
Sheffield says she hopes to secure the funding to launch the program within her first 100 days.
Additional headlines for Monday, Jan. 5, 2026
State utility regulators demand more transparency
DTE Energy, Consumers Energy, and other regulated utilities in Michigan must do more to inform customers about potential rate hikes. This is because of a new order by state utility regulators.
The Michigan Public Service Commission wants to increase customer participation in utility issues, including cases that set new rates. After March, regulated electric utilities must inform customers when they asked for higher rates, and how much their bills would go up if that amount is approved.
There’s concern that this could confuse people, since rarely do utilities get their full requested amount. But supporters of the change say advance notice will let more people find out about and comment on potential rate hikes before the cases are resolved.
Gas prices
Michigan gas prices have dropped 11 cents since last week. According to the auto group AAA, you can get regular unleaded for $2.70. This new price is 18 cents less than a month ago and 44 cents less than this time last year, making this new price the lowest since February of 2021.
The US strikes in Venezuela this weekend don’t seem to have impacted oil prices just yet, according to AAA. The organization also says Venezuela crude oil exports have been limited due to the sanctions in the last couple of years.
Sports updates
NFL
The Lions beat the Chicago Bears 19-16 yesterday with a walk off field goal kick from Jake Bates, ending the season with a winning record. Now all eyes are on the off season, the NFL draft and seeing how they will bounce back for the 2026 season.
NBA
The Pistons beat the Cleveland Cavaliers yesterday 114-110 and remain on top of the Eastern Conference. Their next game is today at Little Caesars against the New York Knicks and again at Little Caesars on Wednesday against the Chicago Bulls.
Tip off for both is at 7:00 p.m.
NHL
The Red Wings play against the Ottawa Senators tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Red Wings are currently third in the Atlantic Division.
Carl Thomas performs
And R&B singer Carl Thomas known for his smash 2000 hit “I Wish” will be performing at Sound Board on Sunday Jan. 11, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
The artist from Illinois hit the Billboard Top Hot 100 and peaked at 20. And this year marks the 26th anniversary of his debut studio album “Emotional.”
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Support local journalism.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
LOS ANGELES — The Detroit Pistons have had a successful start to their five-game West Coast road trip. They are currently 2-1 following Friday’s 131-129 loss to the Utah Jazz.
The Pistons held an 11-point lead with six minutes left in the second quarter. At the time, they appeared to be on the verge of a blowout inside Delta Center; however, the Jazz picked up their production on both ends in the second half, outscoring Detroit 64-61. The Jazz dominated the third quarter by scoring 44 points.
“We were not aggressive coming out of the half at halftime, and I think that was unacceptable for us,” Ron Holland II said. “We know what kind of team we are trying to be. We had two days off and had a team conversation, knowing we are trying to make that huge step this year. We were just being lackadaisical on defense.”
The Pistons’ second-half performance against the Jazz illustrates a recurring issue that has affected the team’s play over the past week. They have built a handful of double-digit leads but have watched as the opposing team rallies in several comeback attempts.
The Pistons have established themselves as championship contenders through 31 games. They are still in first place in the Eastern Conference with a 24-7 record, boasting the league’s second-best defense and eighth-best offense. Over the past three games, however, the Pistons’ second-half play has become a detriment.
Detroit has posted an offensive rating of 109.6, ranking 21st in the league, while averaging 57.0 points during the second half. On defense, the Pistons have been far from the prominent defensive team they established themselves to be since the start of their resurgence. They have a defensive rating of 119.5, ranking 19th in the league, and have allowed opponents to score 61.3 points per game over the final 24 minutes.
“I give our guys a ton of credit for being where we are now, but also understanding that we are not a finished product,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “We have been able to carry things through and make things work out for us, but we are still aiming to put together 48-minute games.”
Bickerstaff continued, “That is going to be the maturation of this team. We have to get 48 minutes of Pistons’ basketball. There have been times when we have played 42 minutes, or whatever it might be, but we are still aiming to put together complete games.”
If it weren’t for Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson keeping the Pistons afloat after Cade Cunningham’s premature exit due to foul trouble, Detroit’s West Coast swing would have started poorly.
Although the Pistons secured a 110-102 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center, they almost squandered a 21-point lead. Despite winning, the Pistons expressed dissatisfaction after the game. Learning and maturing are the only two intangibles that have become a silver lining amid the Pistons’ subpar play in the second half, as they continue to improve as they inch closer to the halfway point of the season.
“We have a lot of young guys who have never been in this position before, and it just takes time,” Bickerstaff said. “But, that is why we are so committed to the process and not just the results. It’s an 82-game season, and we are still trying to be our best at the end of the year, and this is great for us. It shows that we have room to improve. We have to take the opportunity.”
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, center right, goes up for a layup guarded by Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen, right, and Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George, center, during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Tyler Tate)
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Jalen Duren had 26 points and 10 rebounds as the Detroit Pistons held off the Portland Trail Blazers 110-102 on Monday night after blowing a 21-point lead.
Ausar Thompson added 18 points and 12 rebounds for the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons (23-6). Duncan Robinson scored 15 and Cade Cunningham had 14 before fouling out early in the fourth quarter.
Shaedon Sharpe led the Trail Blazers (12-17) with 25 points on 11-of-21 shooting but also committed eight turnovers. Deni Avdija added 18 points, nine assists and eight rebounds.
Donovan Clingan had 17 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks for Portland. Sidy Cissoko scored 16 off the bench.
After trailing by 21 late in the third quarter, Portland was still down nine when Cunningham fouled out with 8:32 remaining. But the Blazers outscored the Pistons 12-2 over the next 4:20 to take a one-point lead. Detroit then closed with an 11-2 run to put away the game.
Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija (8) looks on as Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) hangs off the rim after scoring a basket during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Molly J. Smith)
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