Dan Gilbert is once again working to make Game 7 feel less like a home game for the Detroit Pistons.
Gilbert, who has sent buses of Cleveland Cavalier fans to previous games in the second-round playoffs, reportedly sent more than 20 buses with thousands of Cavalier fans to Little Caesars Arena on Sunday night.
Media reports cited as many as 25 buses bringing Cavs season ticket holders to Detroit for the game.
The number of buses smashed Gilbert’s previous efforts of sending four and eight buses to previous games.
Gilbert is the chairman of Detroit-based of Rocket Cos. and a significant owner of downtown Detroit real estate, but as owner of the Cavaliers, has made it clear the Pistons are his “second-favorite team.” Gilbert and his development team spearheaded a years-long revival of downtown Detroit real estate, accumulating more than 100 properties and redeveloping many of them for commercial or residential use.
Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson commented on Gilbert’s generosity ahead of Game 7, noting it was helpful for his team but also good for the rivalry between the two cities.
“That’s so awesome,” Atkinson said. “I know last time we were here, I noticed it. I know the players noticed it.”
Atkinson said Gilbert “wants to win, badly.”
“I think it matters,” he said. “I think it matters when we see friendly faces. You know, people screaming and yelling for you.”
Cleveland’s coach said he also thinks it’s good for the NBA.
“Cleveland, Detroit, as close as they are, two teams that are battling it out, I think it’s awesome,” Atkinson said.
jpignolet@detroitnews.com
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Dan Gilbert sends more than 20 buses of Cavs fans to Game 7
Reporting by Jennifer Pignolet, The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
