Even with a cast of talented young stars and a former Coach of the Year, the Detroit Pistons have been terrible all season. They’ve already managed to do a not-so-impressive feat by getting 28 consecutive losses. They’re so bad that Cade Cunningham, the team’s best player, is holding back tears after continuously losing. Detroit’s 2023-2024 campaign has been awful and they currently have a 2-29 record. But, internet users are having a field day after a video of the Pistons allegedly holding an open tryout after their record-breaking losing record went viral online. However, NBA fans and hoopers are now wondering if it’s real or just another idea to roast the Pistons.
Open tryouts are real, but very unlike what the viral video depicted
To start, the viral video was just made for laughs (and maybe to poke fun at the Detroit Pistons). The creators of the video made some great edits that had everyone wondering if the team really asked random basketball players to try out for the team. The video even showed the players walking into the Little Caesars Arena and played a 5-on-5 game. Unfortunately, these aren’t true. The Pistons, despite their dreadful season, aren’t holding open tryouts. In fact, you cannot directly try out for an NBA team in hopes of joining their roster. It’s either you get drafted or get the chance to be signed after playing in the G-League or other major leagues in different countries.
On the other hand, open tryouts are common in the G-League. Every year, teams in this league, which are affiliates of NBA teams, (just like Detroit Pistons and the Motor City Cruise) hold an annual open tryout for basketball players hoping to make it big in the pro scene. It does come at a price since you have to pay a $250 non-refundable tryout registration fee. If you want to learn more about NBA G-League open tryouts, click here.