DETROIT, Mich. — The Detroit Pistons will open the 2026-27 NBA season Tuesday, Oct. 20, against the Boston Celtics at Little Caesars Arena with a full day of fan activities before the 3 p.m. tip-off.
Opening Day starts at 10 a.m. in the Little Caesars Arena Plaza, with a blue carpet arrival for players starting at 11 a.m. Franchise legends Isiah Thomas and Jerry Stackhouse will be on the carpet signing autographs.
From noon to 2 p.m., a fall fan fest outside the arena will feature a petting zoo, cider, hard cider and donuts from Blake’s, face painting, an airbrush tattoo station and a basketball skills challenge. The Detroit Public Schools Community District All-City Marching Band will also perform in the plaza.
Doors open at 1:30 p.m., and the first 2,000 fans will get Thunder Sticks. Fans can get 50% off concessions from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. through a discount pass in the Pistons official mobile app, and all fans will receive an Opening Day T-shirt at their seats.
Fans in their seats before 2:55 p.m. can win giveaways and autographed items during the pregame, and one fan will be picked to take a half-court shot in the third quarter for $100,000. The Pistons Team Store will be open from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. without a game ticket.
