Systems and methods for detecting data in a received multiple-input-multiple-output signal are provided. First, second, and third signals are received and form a vector y. The received signals are associated with first, second, and third data values that form a vector x. A channel matrix (H) is received, and a QR decomposition of the channel matrix is performed, such that H=QR. The vector y is transformed into a vector z according to z=QHy. A distance value between the rector z and the vector x is determined for each possible third data value. A nearest constellation point is calculated based on a first of the possible third data values. The calculating step is repeated for each of the possible third data values to generate a set of constellation point triplets. The distance values are determined using the set of constellation point triplets.