The Detroit Pistons introduced new head coach Monty Williams in a press conference yesterday that had some impressive and confusing moments.
With owner Tom Gores and GM Troy Weaver by his side, Williams explained the situation with his wife’s health and used the opportunity to encourage others to get screened for breast cancer, which was a nice moment by the coach.
Fans on Twitter couldn’t get over Troy Weaver’s “ummmm” in-ummm-articulate responses nor that he and Gores apparently went 10 rounds over who the coach would be. You can watch the entire press conference here.
While there were some awkward moments (Gores and Weaver giving off estranged couple vibes), it was overall a very encouraging event. The Pistons’ most important player, Cade Cunningham, shared his thoughts afterward and Monty Williams was obviously impressed with his new team, which was almost entirely in attendance.
Pistons news: Cade Cunningham on Monty, Monty on team
Cade Cunningham shared his thoughts with Bally Sports after the initial press conference and he had nothing but positive things to say about coach Williams, who he called “the best-case scenario.”
Cade Cunningham gives his thoughts on the hire of Monty Williams and his initial interactions with him as well as a personal health update. #Pistons pic.twitter.com/81SgP2yWMX
— Bally Sports Detroit (@BallySportsDET) June 13, 2023
Cade also gave a health update and said he was progressing and would be ready to play a game, which was nice to hear considering information about his health status and progress has been a slow drip.
Williams also walked away impressed by his young team. He talked about the work ethic and the fact that he hadn’t heard anything negative about any of the young players. He also spoke about their professionalism and desire, saying, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a press conference for a head coach and all the players show up… a hunger, a desire, they all want it.”
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a press conference for a head coach and all the players show up… a hunger, a desire, they all want it.” pic.twitter.com/tOqXvs5ZhN
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) June 13, 2023
The players are clearly excited about their new head coach and what he can bring to the huddle, and the feeling seems to be mutual as Williams is embracing the challenge of molding a young, hungry rebuilding team into a winner.
Whatever you might think of Gores personally, or of his time as owner of the Detroit Pistons, you have to give him credit for targeting the coach he wanted and not giving up.
This is a new era in Detroit, one which will hopefully bring the playoff success that has eluded Gores so far.