Pistons news: Ben Wallace backs Isaiah Stewart comparisons
NBA Hall of Fame Ben Wallace supports comparisons between themselves and Isaiah Stewartadding further validation to the young striker’s emergence during Detroit Pistons‘ exceptional season.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill, Wallace addressed the similarities many have drawn between his Hall of Fame career and Stewart’s evolving role in Detroit’s frontcourt.
“I can definitely see it,” Wallace said.
Stewart, 24, is producing some of the most effective work of his career. In 48 games and 13 starts, he averaged 10 points, 5.1 rebounds, a career-high 1.7 blocks and 1.1 assists while shooting 54% from the field and 32.1% from three-point range in 23.3 minutes per game. His influence helped power Detroit to the best NBA record with 43-14.
The comparison mainly focuses on defensive intensity and physical presence. Wallace built his legacy as one of the league’s most dominant defenders despite being undersized for a traditional center. Four-time Defensive Player of the Year and five-time All-Star, Wallace led Detroit’s 2004 championship team and became synonymous with the rough identity of the franchise. His rebounding, rim protection and relentless energy defined an era of Pistons basketball.
Isaiah Stewart credits Ben Wallace with the way mutual respect grows
Stuart accepted the relationship.
“He paved the way for us little guys,” Stewart said. “I try to live up to that and put my name somewhere positive in this organization.”
According to ESPN, the mutual respect between the two goes beyond public comments.
Seeing the respectful exchange, a source who knows Wallace well summed it up:
“Ben looks at Stewart as a proud father.”
As Detroit continues to move up the standings, Stewart’s development remains central to the team’s identity. Wallace’s endorsement reinforces the belief that Stewart’s defensive stature and physicality match the standard set by one of the franchise’s most decorated players.
2026-02-27 18:41:00
