The Detroit Pistons took a strategic chance in last year’s NBA Draft by selecting Ron Holland with the fifth overall pick, aiming to secure a foundational player for the franchise’s future. Initially projected to drop further in the draft, Holland’s selection reflects Detroit’s belief in his potential. Although his rookie season offered limited playing time, his impressive showing in this year’s Summer League has revealed signs that he could quickly become an essential contributor to the Pistons’ evolving roster alongside Cade Cunningham, highlighting the growing significance of their partnership.
Outstanding Performances Highlight Holland’s Summer League Success
Now a second-year player, Holland has stood out among his peers during the Las Vegas Summer League, demonstrating both offensive and defensive skills against a range of opponents. His performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves was a particular highlight, as he put up 22 points on 50% shooting while making nine of ten free throws. Holland’s stat line also featured six rebounds, two assists, and six steals, underscoring his ability to impact multiple facets of the game.
While his three-point shooting struggled in that matchup—making only one of four attempts—and his seven turnovers expose areas for growth, these moments do little to overshadow his overall effectiveness and versatile contributions on both ends of the floor.
Consistent Impact Across Multiple Games Demonstrates Growth
Holland’s Summer League success has been consistent rather than isolated. Against the Houston Rockets, he scored 15 points and added three steals, showing steady defensive prowess. In the season opener versus the New York Knicks, Holland’s output was even more impressive, with 28 points, 11 rebounds, and four steals, proving his ability to shine under pressure. These performances signal that Holland is steadily developing into a central figure for the Pistons’ present and future lineups.
Potential Dynamic Duo Formed with Cade Cunningham
Detroit’s recent progress sets a stage for further advancement, and Holland’s emerging chemistry with Cade Cunningham promises to be a defining factor. Holland’s athleticism and versatility complement Cunningham’s skill set, potentially creating a duo capable of energizing the Pistons on both offense and defense. Despite stiff competition from rising talents such as Jaden Ivey and Ausar Thompson, Holland’s prospect status—once viewed as a potential No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft—strengthens his case to secure a pivotal role alongside Cunningham as the franchise’s cornerstone.
Looking Forward to Continued Development and Team Success
While it is currently unclear how much longer Holland will play in the Summer League, the playing time he has received has provided crucial experience and showcased his potential. His ongoing development will be instrumental for the Pistons as they aim to build on last season’s momentum and target higher achievements in the upcoming year. Holland’s ascending trajectory represents a bright future not only for himself but also for the broader Pistons’ core, with his partnership with Cade Cunningham at the heart of Detroit’s hopeful resurgence.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Cade Cunningham still vegan?
A. Since high school, Cade Cunningham, a Detroit Pistons player, has not eaten any animal products. The only exception was during the FIBA World Cup in Greece in 2019. In a 2021 interview with ESPN, Cunningham explained they weren’t familiar with the local food there.
Q. Is Cade Cunningham still a vegan?
A. In 2019, Cunningham paused his vegan diet and ate McDonald’s while visiting Greece for the FIBA World Cup with Team USA. However, he quickly chose to return to veganism, and he has stayed with it since then.