Detroit Pistons: Why re-signing Dwane Casey was the right call
Detroit Pistons: Troy Weaver has a vision that includes the city of Detroit
One thing that really stood out about Jerami Grant signing with the Pistons was him saying that he wanted to play for a “Black coach and Black GM in a Black city.” (SUBSCRIPTION REQUIRED)
Jerami Grant didn't just come to Detroit to spread his wings as a player. He also came because he wanted to play for a Black coach and Black GM in a Black city.
— James L. Edwards III (@JLEdwardsIII) January 6, 2021
In the player empowerment era, Black empowerment means everything for Grant.
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With many players focused on racial equality, this is an angle for Detroit to lean into and one that has been long-ignored.
Having a black coach and GM is something the Pistons can sell to potential free agents who rightfully want to see more PoC get chances at these positions.
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Even though the league is majority African American, there are only seven black head coaches and eight black GM’s. Things are finally starting to change, which is long overdue, but this is something players pay attention to and care about.
This certainly isn’t going to matter with every free agent, but it will matter to some and could be a deciding factor in a league that is trending towards more inclusion.
Dwane Casey hasn’t won a title, but he has a long track record of developing young players, consistent winning and values that should matter to the city of Detroit.
This was a good move for a franchise that is trying to get back to the table, one that will hopefully bring some sustainable success to Detroit.
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