Who is Cade Cunningham?
Cade Cunningham is an American professional basketball player for the Detroit Pistons of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on September 25, 2001, in Arlington, Texas, he has quickly emerged as one of the league’s brightest young stars. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 220 pounds, Cunningham plays the point guard position, known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and leadership on the court. He was selected first overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, a testament to his exceptional talent and potential.
Personal Life
Outside of basketball, Cade Cunningham is known for being a humble and grounded individual. He is incredibly focused on his career, but also takes time to enjoy his personal life. One of his passions outside of basketball is his commitment to fitness and health, which is reflected in his vegan lifestyle. Cunningham made the decision to go vegan in 2019, a move he has credited with helping him maintain his energy levels and overall well-being.
Cade is also very family-oriented, and he often expresses gratitude for the support system his family provides. Growing up in a close-knit household, Cunningham credits much of his success to his parents, Carrie and Keith, who instilled in him the values of hard work and discipline. His older brother, Cannen, who played college basketball, is another important figure in his life, and the two share a strong bond, with Cannen often offering guidance and mentorship.
Though he’s very private about his romantic life, Cade is known to be a proud father to his daughter, Riley, who was born in 2018. As a father, he values the time spent with his daughter and often posts about her on his social media accounts, expressing the joy and responsibility that comes with fatherhood.
Early Life and Education
Cade Cunningham was born on September 25, 2001, in Arlington, Texas, to Carrie and Keith Cunningham. Raised in a family with a strong athletic background, Cade was introduced to sports early in life. His father, Keith, was a former college football player at Texas Tech, and his older brother, Cannen, played college basketball at Southern Methodist University (SMU). Growing up, Cade was surrounded by basketball, but his natural talent and passion for the game set him apart.
Cade attended Bowie High School in Arlington, where he first began to show signs of his immense basketball potential. His high school career was marked by remarkable achievements, earning him recognition as one of the top basketball players in the country. As a senior, he averaged 25.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, and he led Bowie to the Texas state semifinals. His performance earned him numerous accolades, including being named to the USA Today All-USA High School Basketball Team.
Cade’s outstanding play at Bowie High School caught the attention of top collegiate programs across the nation, and he eventually committed to playing college basketball at Oklahoma State University. However, before he moved to college, he spent a year honing his skills at Montverde Academy in Florida, one of the premier basketball prep schools in the country. At Montverde, Cunningham continued to improve his game and refined his leadership skills, playing alongside other future NBA stars.
At Oklahoma State, Cunningham spent one season (2020-2021) in college basketball. He was the centerpiece of the team and quickly made a name for himself as one of the best college players in the country. Cunningham’s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ was unparalleled, earning him multiple honors, including consensus first-team All-American and Big 12 Player of the Year. His performance at Oklahoma State helped propel him to the top of the 2021 NBA Draft, where he would eventually be selected as the first overall pick by the Detroit Pistons.
Love Story and Childhood
Cade Cunningham’s childhood was shaped by his strong family ties and early immersion in sports. Growing up in Arlington, Texas, he was surrounded by a family deeply involved in athletics, particularly basketball and football. His father, Keith Cunningham, played college football at Texas Tech, and his older brother, Cannen, was a basketball player at Southern Methodist University (SMU). This athletic environment created the perfect foundation for Cade’s passion for sports. However, when it comes to his love life, Cade has kept it relatively private. While much of his personal life remains under wraps, he is known to be a dedicated father to his daughter, Riley, who was born in 2018. The birth of Riley was a pivotal moment in his life, and Cade has frequently expressed the joy and responsibility he feels as a father. His love for his daughter is evident in the posts he shares on social media, where he often speaks about the importance of balancing his career and fatherhood. Cade’s focus on family and his dedication to his daughter reflect the same level of commitment he shows on the basketball court. This blend of professionalism and personal responsibility highlights the values instilled in him since childhood and the love and stability he receives from his family.
Family
Cade Cunningham comes from an athletic family that has played a significant role in shaping his career. His father, Keith Cunningham, played college football at Texas Tech, where he was a standout athlete. Keith was a major influence on Cade’s early years, teaching him the importance of dedication, discipline, and perseverance.
Cade’s older brother, Cannen Cunningham, is also a key figure in his life. Cannen played college basketball at SMU and went on to pursue a coaching career. Growing up, Cade looked up to his brother, who not only shared a love for basketball but also helped guide him in navigating the challenges of being a highly recruited player. Cannen’s insights and experiences have been invaluable to Cade’s growth as a player and person.
Cade’s mother, Carrie Cunningham, has been a constant source of support. She is known for her nurturing nature and has always been there for Cade, providing emotional support throughout his career. Carrie has often spoken about her pride in Cade’s accomplishments and how proud she is of the man he has become, both on and off the court.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cade Parker Cunningham |
| Date of Birth | September 25, 2001 |
| Place of Birth | Arlington, Texas, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) |
| Weight | 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| Position | Point Guard |
| NBA Team | Detroit Pistons |
| Draft Year | 2021 |
| Draft Pick | 1st overall |
| College | Oklahoma State University (2020–2021) |
| High School | Bowie High School (Arlington, TX); Montverde Academy (Montverde, FL) |
| Parents | Carrie and Keith Cunningham |
| Brother | Cannen Cunningham (former college basketball player and current coach) |
| NBA All-Star | 2025 |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $20 million |
| Notable Honors | NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022), Consensus First-Team All-American (2021) |
Career
Cade Cunningham’s journey to the NBA began long before he was drafted in 2021. His early basketball career, which included his high school days and college season at Oklahoma State, laid the foundation for his success in the NBA. After being selected as the first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, Cunningham’s professional career took off.
2021 NBA Draft
Cunningham’s selection as the first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft was a no-brainer for the Detroit Pistons. The team had been in rebuilding mode for years and needed a cornerstone player to lead them into the future. Cunningham, a 6-foot-6 point guard with an impressive blend of scoring, passing, and defense, was the perfect fit. His high basketball IQ and ability to make his teammates better were qualities that made him one of the most coveted players in the draft.
NBA Rookie Season
In his rookie season, Cunningham faced a challenging but promising start. After recovering from a pre-season injury, he quickly showed why the Pistons had invested so heavily in him. He finished his first season averaging 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His ability to score in a variety of ways—whether it was driving to the basket, shooting from deep, or creating plays for his teammates—helped establish him as one of the league’s top young stars.
Cunningham’s leadership was also evident on the court. Despite being a rookie, he quickly earned the trust of his teammates and proved to be the face of the Pistons’ franchise. His maturity and poise were striking for a first-year player, and he demonstrated a level of confidence that was rare for someone his age.
2022-2023 and Beyond
By his second season, Cade Cunningham had become the leader of the Detroit Pistons. His stats continued to rise as he developed a more consistent shooting stroke and grew into a true NBA point guard. As of the 2023-2024 season, Cunningham had firmly established himself as one of the best young players in the NBA, setting the stage for even greater success in the years to come. He has been selected to multiple NBA All-Star Games, continuing to demonstrate his growth and potential.
Career Table
| Year | Event/Accomplishment | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | NBA Draft | Selected 1st overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2021 NBA Draft |
| 2021–2022 | NBA Rookie Season | Averaged 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.6 assists per game |
| 2022 | NBA All-Rookie First Team | Selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team following a stellar rookie season |
| 2022–2023 | Sophomore Season | Continued to improve and became the cornerstone of the Pistons’ offense |
| 2023–2024 | NBA All-Star Selection | Selected to his first NBA All-Star Game as a reserve |
| 2024 | NBA Playoffs | Led the Pistons to the first round of the playoffs, with standout performances |
| 2025 | NBA All-Star (2nd Appearance) | Selected for his second consecutive NBA All-Star Game |
| 2025 | Playoff Performance | Averaging high points, assists, and rebounds in the 2025 Playoffs as the Pistons face the New York Knicks |
| 2025 | Rising NBA Superstar | Recognized as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars with high potential for future success |
This table captures key moments and milestones in Cade Cunningham’s career from his draft year through his All-Star appearances and playoff performances.
Latest News: Playoff Performance
As of April 27, 2025, Cade Cunningham continues to shine in the NBA Playoffs, leading the Detroit Pistons in their first-round series against the New York Knicks. In Game 3, held on April 24, Cunningham delivered an impressive performance with 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 11 assists, showcasing his all-around game and leadership on the court. Despite his efforts, the Pistons narrowly lost to the Knicks 118–116, leaving the series tied at 2–2 .
Cunningham’s playoff performances have garnered attention, with some analysts drawing comparisons to NBA legends. His ability to perform under pressure and elevate his game in critical moments has been highlighted as a testament to his maturity and skill. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Cunningham to see if he can lead the Pistons to victory and further solidify his status as one of the league’s rising stars.
The Pistons and Knicks are set to face off again in Game 4 on April 27, 2025, at Little Caesars Arena, with the series now at a pivotal 2–2 tie. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating how Cunningham will perform in this crucial matchup.
Social Media Accounts Table
Height and Physical Appearance
Cade Cunningham’s physical stature is one of his defining features on the court. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 220 pounds, he possesses a blend of size and agility that allows him to excel both as a scorer and a playmaker. His athletic build, combined with his sharp basketball instincts, makes him a formidable presence in the NBA.
For more information on another notable athlete, you can read about Krunal Pandya on his detailed biography here. Krunal Pandya is an Indian cricketer known for his all-around skills, making a significant impact in both domestic and international cricket.
Additionally, to learn about another young star making waves in international sports, check out the biography of Cody Gakpo, a rising footballer, on Echobiographies. Gakpo’s impressive skills and rapid rise in football have made him a player to watch on the global stage.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Cade Cunningham’s estimated net worth is approximately $20 million. This figure includes earnings from his NBA salary, endorsement deals, and other business ventures. In July 2024, he secured a significant financial milestone by signing a five-year, $224 million contract extension with the Detroit Pistons, solidifying his status as one of the league’s rising stars.
Cade Cunningham’s journey from a promising high school talent to an NBA All-Star is a testament to his dedication, skill, and leadership. As he continues to develop his game, both on and off the court, Cunningham is poised to be a cornerstone of the Detroit Pistons’ future success.
FAQS
Does Cade Cunningham have a child?
Yes, Cade Cunningham has a daughter named Riley, born in 2018. He often shares heartwarming moments with her, highlighting his role as a devoted father.
Is Cade Cunningham still vegan?
Yes, Cade Cunningham has been vegan since high school, with a brief exception during the 2019 FIBA World Cup in Greece due to dietary challenges. He resumed his vegan lifestyle shortly after and continues to follow it.
Is Cade Cunningham in a relationship?
Yes, Cade Cunningham has been in a relationship with Nikia Withers since 2021. They have been together for over three years, and Nikia is often seen supporting him at games and events.
What is Cade Cunningham’s career high?
Cade Cunningham’s career high in points is 43, achieved during a game against the Atlanta Hawks on December 18, 2023. This performance remains his highest scoring game in both the NBA regular season and playoffs.
