5 Basketball Players who Played for Pistons and Cavaliers
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Pistons and the Cavaliers.
Ben Wallace
Undrafted out of Virginia Union University, a Division II school, Ben Wallace began his NBA career with the Washington Bullets/Wizards before making a name for himself with the Pistons.
Wallace was best known for his defensive prowess and rebounding ability. Despite standing at only 6’9″ — relatively short for a center — his tenacity, strength, and instincts helped him become one of the best defenders in the league. He won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award four times, a record he shares with Dikembe Mutombo.
As a Piston, he was a crucial part of the “Goin’ to Work” Pistons that won the NBA Championship in 2004. He was a four-time NBA All-Star and made five All-NBA teams. Despite not being a significant scoring threat, Wallace’s impact was undeniable. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021.
Wallace Key Stats
- Hall of Fame (Pistons, Wizards, Bulls, Magic, Cavaliers)
- All-NBA (Pistons)
- All-Star (Pistons)
- NBA Championship (Pistons)
- 10+ Rebounds/Game Season (Pistons, Bulls)
Andre Drummond
Andre Drummond was selected as the 9th overall pick in the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons. Over the course of his career, he has played for several teams including the Pistons, Cavaliers, Lakers, 76ers, Nets and Bulls.
Drummond’s accomplishments include being named to the NBA All-Star team twice, leading the league in rebounding four times, and earning All-NBA Second Team honors in 2016.
His dominating presence in the paint, particularly as a rebounder, has made Drummond one of the most consistent big men in the league. His ability to score around the basket and alter shots defensively has contributed to his teams’ successes over the years.
Drummond Key Stats
- All-NBA (Pistons)
- All-Star (Pistons)
- 10+ Rebounds/Game Season (Pistons, Cavs, Lakers, Nets)
Derrick Rose
Derrick Rose was selected as the first overall pick by the Chicago Bulls in the 2008 NBA Draft. During his time with the Bulls, Rose earned NBA Rookie of the Year honors and became the youngest player in league history to win the Most Valuable Player award in the 2010-2011 season.
Unfortunately, Rose’s career was hindered by significant knee injuries, including a devastating ACL tear in 2012. Despite these setbacks, he managed to contribute valuable minutes with various teams such as the Knicks, Cavaliers, Timberwolves, and Pistons.
While with the Timberwolves, Rose recorded a career-high 50-point game, and he later played a vital role in helping the Knicks reach the playoffs in the 2020-2021 season. His career is marked by incredible talent and resilience, making him one of the most memorable point guards of his generation.
Rose Key Stats
- Rookie of the Year (Bulls)
- MVP (Bulls)
- All-NBA (Bulls)
- All-Star (Bulls)
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Bulls)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Bulls, Pistons)
Scot Pollard
Scot Pollard brought a distinctive flair to the NBA, not just with his varying hairstyles and beards but also with his rugged play on the court. Drafted 19th overall in the 1997 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, he made a more significant impact after joining the Kings.
With the Kings, Pollard became a key rotation player on teams that were perennial playoff contenders in the early 2000s.
Later in his career, he played for the Pacers, Cavaliers, and Celtics. His time with the Celtics was especially noteworthy, as he was part of their 2008 roster that won an NBA title, solidifying his career with a ring.
Bob Sura
Bob Sura’s basketball journey began at Florida State, where he had a successful college career and became one of the standout players for the Seminoles. Recognizing his talent and potential, the Cleveland Cavaliers selected him 17th overall in the 1995 NBA Draft.
During his NBA tenure, Sura played for several teams, including the Cavaliers, Warriors, Pistons, Hawks, and Rockets. Throughout his career, Sura was known for his competitive spirit and ability to impact the game in various ways, from scoring bursts to crucial defensive plays.
During his time with the Atlanta Hawks, he nearly achieved three consecutive triple-doubles, a rare feat in the NBA. The third game, however, stirred controversy as Sura intentionally missed a shot to grab his tenth rebound, which led the NBA to disallow the triple-double.
Sura Key Stats
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Hawks, Rockets)
