Caris LeVert’s decision to sign with the Detroit Pistons wasn’t made in isolation – it was shaped in part by the input of a trusted friend and former college teammate, Tim Hardaway Jr.
The two shared the court at the University of Michigan, and even though Hardaway had a brief stint with the Pistons earlier this offseason before signing with the Denver Nuggets, he played a pivotal behind-the-scenes role in LeVert’s free agency choice.
“I talked to Tim probably the morning before I signed,” the former Cavalier said in an interview with The Detroit Free Press’s Omari Sankofa II.
“We talked on FaceTime for a while. He was just telling me how great everybody was here, just reassuring me, letting me know that it’s a great organization, great people, obviously great players. He was definitely someone who I leaned on for this decision.”
Hardaway’s endorsement gave LeVert the extra confidence he needed to join a young Pistons team undergoing transition, and now, with Hardaway gone and Malik Beasley’s future in question, Detroit is set to rely heavily on LeVert’s presence in the backcourt.
At 30 years old, the Michigan product brings more than just offensive firepower. He offers playmaking ability, positional versatility, and a newfound defensive identity honed under coach J.B. Bickerstaff during their time together in Cleveland.
That blend of experience and growth is expected to make LeVert a key piece for the Pistons – both on the court and in the locker room – as the team looks to establish consistency and competitiveness in the upcoming season.
With his return to Michigan, a familiar coach in Bickerstaff, and growing responsibilities ahead, LeVert enters the season with expectations and opportunity fully aligned.
Caris LeVert Poised To Play Big Role For Pistons https://t.co/rZP8Jy3RCT pic.twitter.com/qsah0J26hc
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) August 1, 2025
