The Detroit Pistons delivered a strong season in 2015-16, reaching the postseason for the first time since the end of the Rip Hamilton–Chauncey Billups era. Andre Drummond elevated his game to new heights, and the rest of their talented roster flourished despite the departure of Greg Monroe.
Heading into 2016-17, point guard Reggie Jackson has some lofty expectations for the Motown hoopers.
Jackson detailed them during a recent interview on Sirius XM Radio:
“I don't believe there necessarily is a ceiling,” Jackson said. “We can go as far as we want. But it's really going to come from internal growth as a team. Not just in skills but mentally, as well, and being ready for the burden of the season.
“Just stay motivated through the season. Like I said, it's a long, 6- to 9-month season, so you've got to stay locked in, stay geared, you're going to have your ups and downs, going to have your tough times, but you gotta rely upon everybody in the organization, especially the teammates that get you through it. You gotta be mentally tough and, if we can check each other, then I think we can have another great year … and have an even better year.”
Jackson proved that he's capable of being an above average point guard in this league, averaging 18.8 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds. His reinforcements helped the Pistons win 44 games, 12 more than the season before.
In Jackson's mind, that was only the beginning:
“Once you get a taste of (the playoffs), you want more,” Jackson said. “I know going into the playoffs last year, myself, I was the only starter who had been in the playoffs. And just seeing the expressions of the guys throughout being there, seeing how they handled the playoffs, even though it was a short, four-game stretch, I think we were ready.
“I think we got a lot of experience out of it. Seeing the glare in everybody's eyes. They wanted more. They definitely wanted more.”
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