Pistons plan on opening training camp in Ann Arbor

In his first season, Detroit Pistons coach Dwane Casey isn’t going with the status quo.

One of his big changes will start in September, as the Pistons plan on opening their training camp at the University of Michigan's Crisler Center in Ann Arbor instead of their practice facility at The Palace of Auburn Hills, a source confirmed to The Detroit News.

Although the Pistons play their games in downtown Detroit at Little Caesars Arena, they still practice at their training facility in Auburn Hills, while construction continues on their new practice facility — scheduled to be completed in fall 2019 — in midtown Detroit.

Casey, who is regarded for his ability to build relationships with his players, wants his team to bond while spending time together away from practices, and not simply drive home after practice.

It is expected that the Pistons would stay in Ann Arbor one week.

More: Pistons announce five-game preseason schedule

The Pistons' first preseason game is Oct. 3 at Oklahoma City. Their first home preseason game is Oct. 8 against Brooklyn.

Training camp marks the end of a busy offseason, which included the hiring of Casey, who was the coach of the year with the Toronto Raptors last season, helping them to a franchise-record 59 wins before falling to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semifinals.