Thrilling Conclusion to Game 2
In a thrilling conclusion to Game 2 of the 2025 Eastern Conference first-round playoffs, the Detroit Pistons clinched their first postseason victory since 2008, overcoming the New York Knicks. The game ended dramatically when Jalen Brunson, after receiving an inbound pass from Karl-Anthony Towns, attempted a 3-pointer, which unfortunately hit the bottom right corner of the backboard, securing the Pistons’ win. This monumental moment resonated across the globe, reaching fans as far away as South Korea.
Emotional Reaction from a Dedicated Fan
Tom Hur, who lives nearly 7,000 miles from Detroit, captured his emotional reaction on camera as he celebrated the victory while wearing a custom Pistons jersey. As the final buzzer signaled the game’s end, he erupted with joy, only to be overwhelmed with tears soon after. Hur explained:
“I got so emotional because a lot of the memories came back. All of the suffering and all of the teasing from my friends… it felt like a reward for being a loyal fan. It’s an affection only sports can give you.”
His heartfelt reaction quickly gained attention online, amassing over three million views on X (formerly Twitter). Even the Pistons’ official account chimed in with “WE DID IT,” and NBA great Isiah Thomas shared the clip on his Instagram story. This reaction underscored Hur’s pride in being recognized as ‘#1 Detroit Pistons Fan from South Korea.’
Commitment to the Team
Although Hur’s schedule often requires him to adjust his daily routine to keep up with game times that start around 9 a.m. local time, his commitment hasn’t wavered. He often uses “bathroom breaks” during work to catch critical moments of games, and he stays connected through active participation in online groups and social media, allowing him to keep up with live updates even if he can’t watch every play.
A Journey of Loyalty
The journey of how he became a Pistons fan dates back to the mid-2000s when a friend recommended he pick the Pistons while playing NBA Live for balance against the favored Lakers. His devotion solidified when Tracy McGrady, one of his favorite players, joined the team in 2010, leading him to declare that the Pistons were to be his team for life.
Meaningful Connections
Hur’s passion has also facilitated meaningful connections with the franchise. Following a visit to Detroit in 2023, he received a signed jersey and poster from Cade Cunningham. For World Basketball Day, the Pistons even gifted him a personalized jersey showcasing the South Korean flag.
Growing Interest in South Korea
While seeking to bring awareness of the Pistons to his fellow South Koreans, Hur shared that most local basketball fans tend to gravitate towards franchises in larger markets. He remarked:
“We don’t have a large youth following because the Pistons aren’t typically the hot team. But I’m starting to see more interest.”
A Memorable Trip to Detroit
After accumulating a loyal social media following, his recent trip to Detroit for the home opener was met with unexpected fanfare. He spent three days attending games during a notably difficult period for the team, and his return to the city allowed him to immerse in the local culture and food scene. Hur jokingly confessed to gaining 11 pounds from the abundance of Detroit-style pizza and other culinary delights he sampled during his visit.
Recognition and Community
Immediately recognized by players like Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart, it became evident that his enthusiasm for the team had created a ripple effect. Even Pistons owner Tom Gores surprised him with a shopping spree at the team store, expressing admiration for Hur’s unwavering dedication. He stated:
“I think it’s incredible that he follows us so closely, and once we found out about him, we wanted to make sure we took care of him.”
Hauling in a range of Pistons merchandise and sharing his experiences, Hur’s social media presence significantly increased during the trip, attracting attention from notable figures, including Detroit artist Big Sean. With fans inquiring if he would consider relocating to Detroit, Hur expressed the allure of living closer to the team he passionately supports.
Conclusion
His story encapsulates the genuine connection and loyalty that can transcend geographical barriers, showcasing how sports can bind communities together, no matter the distance. With one pivotal playoff victory under their belt, perhaps this is just the beginning for the Pistons and their fan base, even from afar.
