Derrick White’s Remarkable Journey from Parker to Team USA
As Derrick White stepped onto the practice courts this Sunday, it symbolized the beginning of yet another unpredictable chapter in his basketball odyssey. Arriving at 2:30 a.m. after a long flight from the U.S., White was quickly thrown into the mix to fill in for the injured Kawhi Leonard. This unexpected call-up disrupted his planned family vacation in Cabo, but the guard is no stranger to such last-minute twists in his career.
In a flashback to 2019, White's current journey with Team USA strikes a familiar chord. Back then, he was a surprise addition to the senior team roster for the World Cup in China, stepping up from the Select Team after high-profile guards like De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew. It was a moment that marked a significant leap in his career, setting the stage for his role in top-tier basketball.
"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," White reflected. "I feel (now) like I did back then and I'm just excited to be here."
This most recent call came while White was in his hometown of Parker, Colorado, conducting his annual basketball camp. Despite the disruption, White's excitement to join Team USA is palpable. The move also comes on the heels of White's agreement to a lucrative four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics, a testament to his rising profile in the league.
The culmination of the Celtics' NBA title last month highlighted a season noted for White's defensive versatility and high-impact plays. His contribution to Boston's championship run has not only solidified his reputation but also equipped him with invaluable experience that he brings to Team USA. His defensive prowess, coupled with his adaptability, makes him a vital asset to Coach Steve Kerr’s squad.
White has also reunited with familiar faces on the national team, including Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, as well as Jeff Van Gundy, a former team advisor now serving as an assistant coach for Team USA. This reunion is poised to enrich team chemistry, especially with influential players like Kevin Durant needing time off to rehabilitate a strained calf.
"I haven't seen D-White since the parade, so excited to have him here. He'll bring some championship DNA to this team," Tatum said, emphasizing the intangible assets that White brings to the table.
Coach Steve Kerr confirmed that Durant did not participate in contact drills during practice, focusing instead on shooting exercises and rehab work. Durant's absence in Monday's exhibition game against Australia puts more onus on players like White, who are expected to step up and fill the gaps left by such critical injuries.
Overall, White's unexpected call to join Team USA is a testament to his resilience and growth as a player. From stepping in as a last-minute addition for the World Cup team in 2019 to securing a vital role on an NBA champion team, White’s journey underscores his unwavering commitment and exceptional skill set. His presence is sure to infuse Team USA with the same energy and defensive capability that made him indispensable to the Celtics, setting the stage for potentially impactful performances on the international arena.