Joe Dumars Goes Berserk (24 in the 3rd, 17 Straight) to Clinch 60th Win & Division Title

Описание: April 18, 1989 - Less than two weeks after backcourt-mate Isiah Thomas broke his hand in a fracas with Bill Cartwright, Detroit Pistons guard Joe Dumars was well aware that he'd need to shoulder his team's scoring load for an indefinite amount of time. That newfound responsibility manifested itself in arguably the greatest regular season performance of Dumars' career.

With 60 wins, the Central Division, the best record in the league, and home-court advantage throughout the playoffs all on the line, Dumars responded by cashing in a then-career-high 42 points. Dumars was at his most spectacular in the third quarter, when he scored 17 consecutive points and 24 altogether, swinging momentum back in Detroit's direction once and for all.

This game would serve as Dumars' postseason preamble. Two months later, the Pistons were world champions and Dumars was crowned Finals MVP.

As an aside, Dumars' 24-point third quarter tied a franchise record which would stand until Will Bynum and Reggie Jackson would both notch 26 points in the 2010's.

Dumars' Full Game Highlights:    • Joe Dumars Scores 42 Points to Clinch 60th...  

Pistons Central Division Title Celebration:    • 1989 Pistons Clinch 60th Win, Central Divi...  

Box Score: https://www.basketball-reference.com/...

Play-by-Play: Fred McLeod & John MacLeod