In a very close Game 7, the Detroit Pistons returned to the NBA Finals by defeating the Miami Heat by a final score of 88-82.

Richard Hamilton scored 22 points, playing in all 48 minutes.  Chauncey Billups had 18 points, including several clutch free-throws in the final seconds to seal the game.

After Shaquille O'Neal proved he could not be defended, Miami veered away from him, as Dwyane Wade took several ill-advised shots and Damon Jones committed a costly turnover and missed an important free-throw.

Wade sparked Miami to a 3rd quarter lead, continuing the momemntum the Heat had created when Eddie Jones hit a 3-pointer from halfcourt at the buzzer.

Detroit had too much heart in the end and they played like defending champions and they will continue their defense against San Antonio on Thursday.