As Derrick White stood on the practice courts this past Sunday, it marked yet another unexpected, but exciting chapter in his professional basketball journey. Arriving at 2:30 a.m. after a long flight from the U.S., White had been called up to replace the injured Kawhi Leonard. His trip came at a surprising time, as White had originally planned to enjoy a family vacation in Cabo. Instead, he found himself on the practice courts, ready to contribute to Team USA.
White's rapid shift to the international stage isn’t new for the rising star. His journey with Team USA recalls a déjà vu moment from 2019, when he was a last-minute addition to the senior team for the World Cup in China. Back then, White had been playing with the Select Team and secured the final roster spot after higher profile guards like De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew. Reflecting on his journey, White stated, "It was crazy going from the Select Team to the World Cup team, and I just think now I've just continued to get better and better and so feel much more comfortable. I feel [now] like I did back then and I'm just excited to be here."
This recent call-up couldn't have come at a more symbolic moment for White. He was in his hometown of Parker, Colorado, conducting his annual basketball camp when the news came. Adding to his current professional milestones, White recently agreed to a four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics. It's an amount that not only signifies his growing role in the sport but also his indispensable value to one of the NBA's most storied franchises.
The Celtics' NBA title last month marked the pinnacle of a season noted for White's defensive versatility and high-impact plays. His ability to guard multiple positions and make crucial plays in tight situations made him a key figure in Boston's success. Reuniting with Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, as well as former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy — who now serves as an assistant coach for Team USA — White is poised to bring his championship pedigree to the national team. "I haven't seen D-White since the parade," said Tatum. "So [I'm] excited to have him here. He'll bring some championship DNA to this team."
White's addition to Team USA is particularly timely. Forward Kevin Durant, nursing a strained calf, is set to miss Monday's exhibition game against Australia. Coach Steve Kerr announced that Durant did not have contact at practice and focused primarily on shooting drills and rehab work. In Durant's absence, White's defensive prowess, championship experience, and adaptability will be invaluable for Team USA as they continue their preparation for the upcoming competitions.
While the challenges ahead for Team USA are numerous, White’s unexpected arrival injects further optimism. Known for his resilience and steady improvement, White's presence is not just a replacement but a reinforcement that solidifies the team's core. The journey from his modest beginnings to now being a critical component of both the Boston Celtics and Team USA underscores just how far White has come and how much further he can go.
White’s narrative is one of continuous evolution and rising to the occasion when called upon. Wherever his path leads next, one thing is clear: Derrick White is always ready for the moment, proving that with perseverance and dedication, the unexpected can often lead to extraordinary achievements.