What happened
Cade Cunningham missed a 26-foot step-back three-pointer with 9:06 left in the first quarter, per an ESPN play-by-play update. The score sat at 4-2 at the time of the attempt. The miss came during an early offensive possession in the 2025-26 NBA postseason.
Why it matters
Cunningham's shot selection and efficiency from deep are central to Detroit's offense, and step-back threes have been a signature look in his playoff run. Wire.report previously chronicled Cunningham's superstar-level stretch after Detroit fell down 3-1, making each early possession a barometer for his rhythm. Early misses can shape pace and spacing for the rest of the quarter.
What to watch
Watch whether Cunningham forces the next attempt or moves the ball, and whether the defense continues conceding step-back looks from above the break.