Pistons vs. Heat to Open 2023 Emirates NBA Cup

Detroit, Miami to square off in Abu Dhabi

First of six group stage games for both teams

The Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat will tip off the 2023 Emirates NBA Cup on Thursday, October 6 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The game will be the first of six group stage games for both teams. The Pistons and Heat are in Group A along with the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, which will be held on October 8.

The championship game will be played on October 10.

The Emirates NBA Cup is the NBA's first in-season tournament to be held outside of North America.

The tournament is part of the NBA's efforts to grow the game of basketball globally.

Pistons looking to build on last season's success

The Pistons are coming off a 23-59 season, but they are hoping to build on the progress they made last year.

Detroit has a young and talented roster led by Cade Cunningham, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.

The Pistons also added some veteran leadership this offseason, signing Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart.

Heat looking to contend for a championship

The Heat are coming off a disappointing season, but they are still one of the most talented teams in the Eastern Conference.

Miami has a Big Three of Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Kyle Lowry.

The Heat also have a deep bench led by Tyler Herro and Gabe Vincent.

Pistons vs. Heat matchup

The Pistons and Heat are both expected to be competitive teams this season.

The matchup between the two teams on Thursday should be a close one.

The Pistons will be looking to get off to a good start in the Emirates NBA Cup, while the Heat will be looking to make a statement.