Monday night was the final Detroit Pistons game at the Palace of Auburn Hills. After playing in the building since 1988, the team announced this past November that they’d be joining the Detroit Red Wings in the brand new Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit, meaning that all four Detroit professional sports teams would be playing downtown for the first time in decades.
During halftime of Monday night’s game against the Washington Wizards, a special tribute video to the moments that took place at The Palace was played for the fans that included testimonials from rival NBA players and management. There were also a few special guests that were recognized, as well.
Relive our special halftime featuring Isiah, Chauncey, Ben, Dennis, Stack, and more! #MyPalaceMemory https://t.co/zbWvfHfayt
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) April 11, 2017
Palace announcer Mason welcomed Pistons alumni Jerry Stackhouse, Isiah Thomas, Chauncey Billups, Ben Wallace, Richard “Rip” Hamilton, John Salley, Rick Mahorn, Tayshaun Prince, James Edwards, and Dennis Rodman who were among those in attendance and were recognized for their contributions to the team over the years. They are some of the most recognizable names in Pistons history that contributed to the three titles the Pistons won while playing at The Palace.
Afterward, the group of former Pistons posed with the three Larry O’Brien NBA Championship trophies they won. Additionally, throughout the night, several video tributes were played to the 1989, 1990, and 2004 championship teams. The fans were delighted to see Rodman before the game, who delivered the game ball to half-court before tip-off.
The Palace of Auburn Hills is the second sports arena to close for a Detroit sports franchise in as many days. Joe Louis Arena hosted its final game on Sunday night. While the Red Wings won their final game at the Joe 4-1 over the New Jersey Devils, the Pistons would ultimately drop their final game at The Palace by a 105-101 score to the Wizards.
With the team officially eliminated from playoff contention, they’ll wrap up their season on the road against the Orlando Magic.
