The 2002–03 NBA season was the Pistons' 62nd season as a franchise, the 55th in the National Basketball Association, and the 46th in the Detroit area. During the offseason, the Pistons acquired Richard Hamilton from the Washington Wizards and signed free agent Chauncey Billups. With the acquisitions of Hamilton and Billups, the Pistons finished the season with a 50–32 record, earning them first place in the Eastern Conference. After defeating the Orlando Magic 4–3 in the first round, and Philadelphia 76ers 4–2 in the semifinals, the Pistons were a serious title contender. Instead, they had their season ended with a sweep to the New Jersey Nets in four straight Eastern Conference Final games.

Ben Wallace was voted to play in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game for the first time in his career. He also won Defensive Player of the Year for the second year in a row. Following the season, Pistons head coach Rick Carlisle was fired after spending only two seasons with the team. Also following the season, Clifford Robinson was traded to the Golden State Warriors, Jon Barry signed as a free agent with the Denver Nuggets, and Michael Curry was dealt to the Toronto Raptors.

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