Several members of the Detroit Pistons will travel to Las Vegas on Aug. 31 to work out with UFC trainers in a team bonding activity.

The event was orgnized by the players led by Reggie Jackson and Andre Drummond.

UFC fighters visited the team's practice facility two weeks ago to train with the hoops players, who are returning the favor by working out with those from the UFC, according to the Detroit Free Press.

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The Pistons  will stay in Vegas for about a week.

The players will obviously not be pitted against the MMA fighters, said Spencer Dinwiddie, who is trying to land a backup point guard role with the Pistons and among those who would be attending, 

Dinwiddie added they don't want to get hurt doing that.

He said that the main objective of the activity is to acquire group cohesion, get in great  shape and bond with the team.

Dinwiddie doesn't know whose idea it was, noting that it might have beed suggested by their equipment manager, strength coach or head coach Stan Van Gundy.

Rehabbing point guard Brandon Jennings is already in Las Vegas and would probably join the activtiy.

It's not clear how the participation in the work out will have an impact for aspiring players in making the roster.

Nonetheless, expect many small forwards to try to make an impression, as there is a logjam in that position.  
The NBA.com reported that there is a scramble for a roster berth among small forwards Adonis Thomas, Reggie Bullock and Cartier Martin. 

Seemingly, there's only one spot left from among Thomas, Bullock and Martin.

Meanwhile, Marcus Morris and Stanley Johnson will be battling for the starting spot at small forward. 

Tagsdetroit pistons, UFC, cross training