CadeCunningham

Cade Cunningham went first overall in the NBA draft, a selection that gave the Detroit Pistons a point guard around whom the franchise could organise. That choice has been vindicated by All-NBA First Team and All-Star recognition. Cunningham now runs the offence for Detroit and his role as the primary guard shapes the team's half-court structure. He is the player the franchise builds its possessions around.

The path to Detroit ran through national prep honours: Mr. Basketball USA, Naismith Prep Player of the Year, MaxPreps National Player of the Year and McDonald's All-American status. That résumé made him the top pick in 2021. All-Rookie First Team selection followed, then All-NBA Third Team in 2024, All-NBA First Team and a first All-Star appearance in 2025, and a second All-Star nod in 2026.