The Detroit Pistons suffered a major blow when 2022 NBA Draft fifth overall pick Jaden Ivey sustained a catastrophic injury during their home game against the Orlando Magic. The incident occurred early in the fourth quarter after a missed three-pointer by Cade Cunningham.
As Ivey and Magic guard Cole Anthony scrambled for the loose ball, Anthony dove for it, rolling awkwardly under Ivey’s leg. The horrific scene was marked by Ivey’s screams, indicating the severity of the injury. His leg was stabilized on the court before he was placed on a stretcher. Players from both teams gathered at half-court to offer prayers and support, while Anthony appeared visibly shaken by the accidental play.
Reports from ESPN and the Detroit Free Press confirmed that Ivey suffered a broken fibula. In his third year, Ivey had made significant strides and was a frontrunner for the NBA’s Most Improved Player award. He had started all 30 games this season, posting career highs with averages of 17.6 points, four assists, and four rebounds, while shooting 40.9% from three-point range. The Pistons had also shown improvement after a disappointing prior season.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff emphasized the team’s resilience postgame. “At the heart of this team and what we’ve tried to preach all year since we’ve been here is togetherness,” Bickerstaff said. “If one guy goes down, you don’t want to let that guy down, so everybody else has to step up. It’s the human aspect of it. But I thought our guys did a really good job of sticking together and getting it done.”
Despite the emotional toll of Ivey’s injury, the Pistons secured a 105-96 victory over the Magic. However, they continue to face challenges, including Cade Cunningham’s ongoing knee issues. The team, currently 15-17, will now have to regroup as they aim to climb back to .500 on the season.
