AUBURN HILLS - A second-round pick starting the season-opener as a rookie is virtually unheard of, but Detroit Pistons coach Dwane Casey was confident the moment wouldn't overwhelm Bruce Brown because of his maturity, confidence and toughness.
Brown's job description was simple: Just play defense. The execution wasn't as easy, guarding NBA veterans like D'Angelo Russell, Caris LeVert, Joe Harris and Spencer Dinwiddie.
The 6-5 guard from Miami, selected 42nd overall, earned praise for his 19 minutes of energy and tenacity in the 103-100 victory against the Brooklyn Nets at Little Caesars Arena.
"The young man is going to be a fantastic defender in this league," Casey said.