The Pistons Pulse

Bryce and Omari are joined by Andrew Schlecht of The Athletic to discuss a newsy week in the NBA, starting with the release of former Piston Jaden Ivey after controversial comments he made online. Later, the guys discuss Cade Cunningham's NBA MVP case, the 65-game awards rule potentially snubbing his chances, the impact Daniss Jenkins has made and more. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari break down Cade Cunningham’s injury and how is absence is influencing the conversation around the 65-game rule for NBA awards. Later, the guys talk Daniss Jenkins’ career game against the Los Angeles Lakers and what his future role with the team could look like. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: This podcast was recorded the afternoon of 3-17-26. Bryce and Omari welcome back Free Press Sports columnist and friend of the show Shawn Windsor to help deconstruct the defensive needs of the Detroit Pistons. The guys talk which players to watch in March Madness for the Pistons, react to the the Pistons’ disappointing March so far, what the team needs to get back on track, confidence levels heading into the playoffs and J.B. Bickerstaff's rotations. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

In this week's episode, Omari Sankofa II and Bryce Simon break down the many issues affecting the Pistons during their four-game skid.  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

After a quick shout out to the latest addition to the Davenport family (Congrats Wes and Jill!), Bryce and Omari recap the Pistons' wins over the Oklahoma City Thunder, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Orlando Magic. Later, the guys focus in on the growing offensive prowess of Jalen Duren, break down Cade’s ranking in the MVP conversation, and analyze the spark Ausar Thompson provides to the team. The guys also answer listener questions, including if the Pistons are being overlooked in the national NBA conversation.  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce, Omari, and friend of the pod Laz Jackson break down the Pistons’ loss to the the San Antonio Spurs. Was this loss a wake-up call for the team or are the Victor Wembanyama led Spurs uniquely built to slow the Pistons down? The guys also debate Ausar Thompson’s usage in the game and where coach J.B. Bickerstaff may need to make changes. The guys also look ahead to the rest of the regular season and talk potential matchups in the NBA playoffs. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: Click here if you’d like to see a photo of Bryce’s new puppy After welcoming the newest member to the Simon family, Bryce and Omari recap NBA All-Star Weekend and share thoughts on the new format. Later, the guys dive deep into the final run of games the Pistons will play and offer what we can learn about the team as they head towards the end of the regular season. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: This podcast was recorded the morning of 2-8-26 before news broke of Daniss Jenkins signing a two-year standard contract with the Detroit Pistons. After a brief conversation on Super Bowl LX, the guys recap the Detroit Pistons’ 118-80 win over the New York Knicks and highlight Ausar Thompson’s impressive developments guarding against Jalen Brunson. Later in the pod, Bryce and Omari discuss Daniss Jenkins' contract situation and share additional thoughts on the Jaden Ivey - Kevin Huerter trade. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari break down what to know about the Detroit Pistons trade that sends Jaden Ivey to the Chicago Bulls. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Free Press Pistons writer Omari Sankofa II breaks down the Detroit Pistons' trade of Jaden Ivey to the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday, Feb. 3. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: This podcast was recorded 1-26-26After reviewing the Pistons’ recent two matchups, Bryce and Omari explore a vast array of potential trade deals the team could pursue leading up to the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline. Could Jaden Ivey’s time in Detroit be coming to an end? The guys also discuss their thoughts on trading for Michael Porter Jr. and why Daniss Jenkins needs minutes in every game. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Following the Pistons’ win over the Boston Celtics, Bryce and Omari recap the victory and dive into how the team has been exceeding expectations this year. Is J.B. Bickerstaff making his case for NBA Coach of the Year? The guys also break down Tobias Harris’ performance against the Celtics, why Duncan Robinson has been so effective, and if Jalen Duren has cemented himself as an NBA All-Star. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Friend of the pod Keith Smith joins Bryce and Omari to help game out what paths the Detroit Pistons could pursue with the upcoming trade deadline. Keith walks the guys through a potential Daniss Jenkins contract, the intricacies of trade exceptions and more. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: This podcast was recorded 1/4/26Bryce and Omari welcome back senior writer for The Athletic and friend of the pod James Edwards III. The trio explore the potential rivalry between the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks. They also break down where the two franchises rank in the Eastern conference.   Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

With a looming holiday break approaching, Bryce and Omari revisit an assortment of projections they made before the Pistons kicked off the 2025-2026 season. Later in the pod, producer Wes joins to pit the guys against each other in another true or false edition of “Sheed or Sham”? Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Omari and a diminished speaking-voice Bryce recap the Pistons’ big win against the Boston Celtics. The guys also hone in on Caris Lavert establishing his groove, Jaden Ivey’s performance since returning from injury, Cade’s MVP case, and Ausar Thompson’s recent struggles on offense. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

With a lull in the Pistons’ schedule this week, Bryce and Omari welcome back friend of the pod Laz Jackson to offer insights into how the 2025 roster is performing at this point in the season. After covering the chatter around a potential trade for Anthony Davis, the guys dive deep into roster analysis, including Laz’s perspective on Jalen Duren and the hometown love for Ron Holland. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!  

Bryce and Omari continue the conversation on the 12-man rotation with the unsung heroes of the roster still stepping up in key moments for the team. The guys also break down the recent win against the Miami Heat and the losses to the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic. They also evaluate Cade’s elevated level of play and Daniss Jenkin’s contributions. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari welcome Senior NBA writer for ESPN and co-host of “Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective” Tim Bontemps to the show this week. The guys get Tim’s perspective on the Pistons’ unexpected hot start and J.B. Bickerstaff's influence in leading the team. The trio also dive into an in-depth discussion on what questions and moves the front office will need to consider in cultivating long-term success. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: This podcast was recorded 11-16-25 With key starters for the Detroit Pistons still unavailable due to injuries, Bryce and Omari break down the positive impact the team’s backup players have been making on the court. The guys highlight the contributions from Daniss Jenkins, Duncan Robinson and more. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari break down the Detroit Pistons’ win streak and what’s clicking for the team despite notable absences. The guys talk the unsung heroes of the roster’s recent play and if the team is good enough to go “all in.” Omari and Bryce examine what trends from this hot start can last a full season, Daniss Jenkins’ impact on the court, and how to move the roster forward. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari recap Jalen Duren’s impressive performance against the Dallas Mavericks and the dominance Cade Cunningham is showing on the court. Beyond Duren’s impressive showing in Mexico, the guys also cover the team’s 3-point attempts and what Cade seems to have figured out this year.  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: This podcast was recorded 10-28-25 Free Press Sports columnist and friend of the pod Shawn Windsor joins Bryce and Omari to break down how the Pistons have looked in their first few games of the 2025 season. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari react to the Detroit Pistons' 115-111 loss to the Chicago Bulls. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Producer note: For Omari and Bryce, congratulations on episode 200! For our listeners, this episode was recorded the morning of 10-15-25. Bryce and Omari mark their 200th episode by getting straight to work and continuing their preseason Detroit Pistons coverage. After a quick update on the status of Jaden Ivey's health, the guys break down what they’ve seen this preseason from Cade Cunningham, Tobias Harris, Daniss Jenkins, Ron Holland, Isaiah Stewart, Ausar Thompson and Caris LeVert. To close out the show, Bryce shares a Cade Cunningham hot take. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Omari and Bryce finally have real basketball to discuss as the Detroit Pistons bested the Memphis Grizzlies in preseason play 128-112. Has the team cemented their identity and play style? Later, the guys take a deep dive into roster lineups and analyze which combinations could be the most advantageous this year. Also in the pod, with the looming Detroit vs. Kansas City matchup in the NFL, the guys briefly have that conversation and Chiefs fan Bryce shares his not-so-optimistic take with the Lions coming to town.  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

With the return of the NBA season on the horizon, Omari and Bryce break down the standout quotes and moments from the Detroit Pistons’ media day press conference. The guys dive into what insights were revealed, including the team’s offseason workouts, the status of Jaden Ivey’s health, what the young players learned from veteran leadership and more. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

With training camp fast approaching and the season not far behind, Bryce and Omari welcome old friend Vincent Goodwill, now of ESPN, to preview the season. The guys discuss Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren's development tracks, what the next level might look like for Cade Cunningham and just how important Ausar Thompson is for this team now and in the future.  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

With two weeks to go to until training camp, Omari offers an update on Malik Beasley’s situation and along with Bryce, the guys consider whether the Detroit Pistons should reunite with the fan-favorite player. Later in the pod, Bryce and Omari share Pistons roster and general NBA award predictions. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari welcome Pistons Jack (@pistons_jack) to the pod this week. The trio open the show by detailing the dynamism of the Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey duo. Will the pair be able to take the next necessary step in their play this year and how does the duo rank compared to the rest of the NBA Easter Conference? Bryce, Omari and Jack shares their insights along with takeaway predictions for the end of the ’25 season. To close out the pod, Bryce aims for game host redemption by having Omari and Jack face off in a round of trivia. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

The boys are back in town and the band is back together with Omari returning from his vacation! As “The Pistons Pulse” team await the arrival of the 2025 season, Bryce and Omari evaluate the Pistons roster and make their predictions for how the team will fare this year. Can Ausar cement his status as an elite defender? Will Cade prove himself as a perennial all-star? What impact will veterans make on the team? The guys lay out their individual player thoughts and more. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

With Omari still away on vacation, Bryce brings in podcast hosts Andrew Schlecht and Alex Spears of The Athletic’s “Slam n’ Jam" podcast. The trio break down the NBA’s Western Conference and game out where the Detroit Pistons may stack up in the overall mix. Later, Bryce plays game show host and attempts to get revenge for his past “Slam n’ Jam” trivia performances by pitting Andrew and Alex against each other. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

With Omari away on a much deserved vacation, Bryce brings on his former coach at American University, Jeff Jones. Coach Jones dives into how the collegiate basketball landscape has shifted since his playing years, team chemistry, and what it was like playing against a freshman Michael Jordan. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

Bryce and Omari Sankofa II (O2) welcome on to the pod Omari’s dad, the original Omari Sankofa (O1).  The guys get the fan perspective from Mr. Sankofa on topics like why the team should run its roster back and Jaden Ivey's x-factor. The trio also field listener questions, including how O2 started his journalism career. Later in the show, producer Wes pits father against son and co-host against co-host in another round of “Sheed or Sham”. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up  "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!

After an offseason of moves and adjustments, Bryce and Omari break down the Eastern Conference landscape and analyze where the Pistons fit among their competitors. After their playoff appearance last season, is the team well-positioned to move up in the conference?  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack

Bryce and Omari break down how players like Chaz Lanier, Bobi Klintman, and Ron Holland fared in the 2025 NBA Summer League.  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack

Bryce and Omari are out in Vegas to cover the start of NBA Summer League. The guys break down who they saw and what impressed them in game 1. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack

Bryce and Omari are Las Vegas bound this week. Before the guys took off, they broke down the latest off-season developments for the Pistons including, Chaz Lanier’s press conference and how the team’s salary cap situation has shifted. Later, the guys talk what they expect to see from players like Ron Holland in the 2025 NBA Summer League. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack

Bryce and Omari dive into what fans should know about Caris LaVert, Duncan Robinson, and Chaz Lanier. Later, the guys bring back friend of the pod Keith Smith to help explain where things stand with the salary cap for the Detroit Pistons. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack

Bryce and Omari are joined by draft experts Stephen Gillaspi and Maxwell Baumbach from No Ceilings NBA for a live mock draft of picks 26 through 40 of this year's draft. The guys explore the potential options for the Pistons' pick at 37 and offer trade-up scenarios, including which surprise team may attempt to move back. You can watch picks 1-25 and the rest of the mock draft on YouTube here.  Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!