As the Detroit Pistons prepare to tip off their 2026 NBA Playoffs run this Sunday at Little Caesars Arena, owner Tom Gores has a powerful message for the city: Thank you. In a heartfelt letter released to fans on Tuesday, Gores expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support that has fueled one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent sports history.

This moment stands in stark contrast to just over two years ago, when the franchise was mired in a historic 28-game losing streak. Now, the Pistons enter the postseason as the Eastern Conference's top seed, having clinched 60 wins for only the third time in the team's storied history. Gores's letter, titled "Thank You, Detroit — Let’s Keep Going," frames this achievement as more than just a winning record—it's the culmination of a gritty, foundational rebuild.

"What we’re building here is a story for the ages," Gores writes. He credits the entire Pistons ecosystem—players, coaches, front office, and the Detroit community—for this resurgence. But he saves special praise for the fans, whose energy and belief have become the team's bedrock. "Your support has lifted this team and reminded everyone how powerful Detroit Basketball can be," the letter states.

This playoff berth symbolizes a victory forged through patience and resilience. Gores emphasizes that the team earned its success "the right way: No shortcuts. No quick fixes." As a young core that endured immense difficulty together now takes the league's biggest stage, the letter serves as both a celebration of how far they've come and a rallying cry for the challenges ahead. The journey from a record-breaking slump to a conference crown is a testament to the tough, blue-collar identity that defines Detroit, and it sets the stage for what promises to be an electrifying playoff atmosphere.