The Pistons tried a late comeback but the rally came up short as they fell 105-100 to the high tempo Bobcats.
Tonight marked the first game for the Bobcats since head coach Larry Brown resigned and was replaced by Paul Silas.
Charlotte started the game firing on all cylinders with fast break layups, key contributors off the bench and something they have lacked the first 29 games of the season, confidence. D.J. Augustin scored 27 points while Stephen Jackson was able to add 23.
“I just think it was a good beginning,” said Silas, who hadn’t coached since getting fired by Cleveland in 2005. “I’m so happy we pulled this one out because if we hadn’t it would have been a problem.”
Charlotte was able to get a 23 point lead before nearly losing it to a Pistons team that has also seen their fair share of problems this season.
Pistons’ two guard Ben Gordon, who was recently promoted to starter, missed two tying three point attempts in the closing seconds of the game while Tyrus Thomas was able to sink two free throws with one second left putting a dagger into any hopes the Pistons had to completing the comeback.
Charlie Villanueva had 25 points for Detroit who lost their second consecutive game while Charlotte was able to snap a four game losing streak.
“It’s going to take some time, but I like the effort tonight,” Silas said. “If we continue to play with this kind of effort, it’s unbelievable what we can do.”
Ben Wallace had only two rebounds in 16 minutes of play, Tracey McGrady had two points in 11 minutes, Prince and Gordon both had 17 while Chris Wilcox was able to net 15 off the bench.