Ron Holland and Ausar Thompson are both primed for big leaps this season. Both of the young wings have been working hard in the offseason and are eager to show their improvements on the court. They will be especially devastating on the defensive end, where Ausar hopes they can make teams “work 9 to 5” for any points.
Ausar and Ron are Detroit’s Terror Twins
This offseason, Ron Holland changed his number from 00 to 5 - a seemingly minor change with major implications. A big question raised by this change was the status of Malik Beasley, who donned the Detroit #5 last season. But in the meantime, it has created the opportunity for a great duo nickname with Ausar Thompson.
Ausar wears number 9 and remarked that he was glad for Ron’s number change so they can be a “9 to 5” defensive duo. Both players were wrecking balls on defense last season, with Ausar’s impact on that end being one of the Pistons’ biggest strengths.
The focus on Ausar and Ron as a defensive twosome capable of causing chaos on the court mirrors the branding of the Houston Rockets. There, Ausar’s twin brother Amen Thompson and Tari Eason were labeled “The Terror Twins” last season as both frequently checked in together and created turnovers and misses defensively. Their contributions helped the Rockets to one of the top defensive ratings in the league and the #2 seed in the West.
Detroit’s 9-to-5 hopes to have a similar impact and success for the Pistons next season. Ron and Ausar both mentioned how much they love playing with each other. Their synergy enables both to take more aggressive chances on defense, which can disrupt an opposing offense and create easy chances for the Pistons on the fast break.
Ron also recalled how Ausar frequently reviewed defensive film immediately after games last season, and he plans to do the same this season. Ron has all of the physical tools to be a great defender at multiple positions, and this increased attention to detail can help him get there faster.
Both Ausar and Ron also expect to make offensive improvements. Both players said they have been working on playmaking and decision-making in the offseason. Ron also displayed his improved jump shot in Summer League while dominating other teams. And Ausar has gotten the green light from coach JB Bickerstaff to make more plays with the ball in his hands, both in the open floor and in the half court.
It’s clear from media day that Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland have high expectations for themselves this season. If their impact matches their expectations, we could be hearing a lot about the 9 to 5.