Related Detroit Pistons-1Rivalry Review, Part 5: The Milwaukee Bucks in NBA HistoryRelatedDetroit Pistons-The Milwaukee Bucks: A Long-Time Rivalry Pistons vs Bucks
As two basketball-loving sports towns, the Detroit Pistons and Milwaukee Bucks are certainly storied franchises in their own right. Over the years, the two franchises have had varying success but every time they meet on court it is a thrill and some high drama. From the polish of the Bad Boys wars decades ago to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s current dominance, Pistons vs. Bucks really is a match made in history that highlights how both teams and their definition are abstract ever-changing NBA teams.
Next, in this article we break down the ongoing and past Pistons v Bucks match up through history via key players from both teams that have made an impression on how this rivalry blossomed.
History: Early Years and Competitive Seasons Pistons vs Bucks
The Detroit Pistons are a venerable franchise, going back to 1941 (as the Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons), just as the Milwaukee Bucks have been around since entering the NBA in 1968. Neither team had real success in the early years but both teams soon found their footing to start a kind of rivalry that intensified during the 1980s and 1990s when both franchises consistently met in the playoffs.
And so: The Pistons’ “Bad Boys” are born in the 1980s.
The Pistons, with Isiah Thomas, Joe Dumars and Bill Laimbeer among others, built a vicious reputation as the “Bad Boys” in the 1980s. The Bad Boys Pistons of the era were tough as nails, played hard defense, and backed down from no one. Over this period, Detroit went from a league doormat to a title contender, winning two NBA championships in 1989 and 1990.
The Pistons and Bucks met up in the playoffs a couple of times during these years, with the Bucks being one of
