Cunningham’s 52-point night lifts Detroit past Washington in double overtime

Cunningham added 11 assists and did not commit a turnover as Detroit won a game Washington twice prolonged with shots in the closing seconds. Trae Young’s buzzer-beating three-pointer forced the first overtime; rookie AJ Dybantsa’s jumper with under a second remaining in that period sent the teams to a second extra session.

Cunningham opened the second overtime with a three, and Washington’s Anthony Davis fouled out. With the Wizards still within two points late, Cunningham scored from the baseline to put Detroit ahead 142-138 with 25.3 seconds remaining. Washington has now lost six games in a row.

Cunningham made 16 of 25 shots and 17 of 18 free throws. His previous career high was 46, also against Washington, just over a year earlier. Ausar Thompson recorded 17 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists for his first NBA triple-double. Daniss Jenkins had 21 points before fouling out.

Young led Washington with 37 points and 14 assists, though he made eight of 23 shots. Davis and Alex Sarr scored 30 points apiece. Sarr made all 10 of his shots in regulation and finished 12-for-14. The three 30-point performances marked the franchise’s first such trio since the Baltimore Bullets had one in 1969.

Detroit will visit Miami on Saturday, while Washington is set to host Houston on Sunday.