The Detroit Pistons got an early look at Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday, when they hosted their first preseason game at the facility.
With their move to the new downtown Detroit venue complete, the Pistons are gearing up for their inaugural season at Little Caesars Arena. One of the first events the team held at the arena was Wednesday’s preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets.
While the Pistons dropped that contest by a final of 108-106, the arena left a good impression on the team, providing more anticipation for its upcoming NBA regular season debut on October 18. More from The Detroit News:
Some of the longtime season-ticketholders had seen the new arena on various tours, but others still were checking out the new features, including the wider, airier concourses and cozier, closer seating near courtside.
The excitement grew, as the Pistons got out to a hot start and led most of the game but gave up the lead in the final five minutes, falling to the Charlotte Hornets, 108-106.
“It was good. It’ll be a lot better in two weeks,” Van Gundy said. “It was good to get in the building and play — our guys were excited about it.”
The Pistons are moving into the new Little Caesars Arena after departing The Palace of Auburn Hills, which had been their home since 1988. As for Little Caesars Arena, the venue has another major event taking place on Thursday, when the Detroit Red Wings will host the Minnesota Wild in the very NHL regular season game to be played at the arena.
Image courtesy Little Caesars Arena.
