As Derrick White stood on the practice courts Sunday, it marked the beginning of another unexpected chapter in his basketball journey. Arriving at 2:30 a.m. after a long flight from the U.S., White was called up to replace the injured Kawhi Leonard. Prepared to enjoy a family vacation in Cabo, plans quickly shifted as White's presence became crucial for Team USA.
For White, this call-up is a déjà vu moment that harkens back to 2019. That year, he made a last-minute inclusion to the senior team for the World Cup in China. Initially, 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. "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," White recalled.
This recent call-up disrupted White's schedule while he was in his hometown of Parker, Colorado, conducting his annual basketball camp. Yet, the opportunity is more than a testament to his unwavering commitment. White recently agreed to a four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics. Celebrating an NBA title just last month, White’s season with the Celtics was marked by his defensive versatility and high-impact plays that contributed to the team's success.
As White reunited with Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, and former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy, now an assistant with Team USA, the sense of camaraderie was palpable. Tatum expressed his excitement, saying, "I haven't seen D-White since the parade, so excited to have him here. He'll bring some championship DNA to this team."
The importance of White's defensive prowess, championship experience, and adaptability cannot be overstated. With forward Kevin Durant sidelined due to a rehabilitating strained calf, White’s presence bolsters Team USA’s defensive schemes. Coach Steve Kerr commented that Durant did not have contact at practice, focusing instead on shooting drills and rehab work.
While White’s inclusion disrupts his initial personal plans, his commitment to seizing the moment and contributing to Team USA underscores his professional dedication. Wherever his journey takes him, Derrick White is emblematic of an athlete ready to rise to the occasion, embodying a spirit of resilience and adeptness that echoes throughout his career.
