As Derrick White stood on the practice courts Sunday, it marked the beginning of another unexpected chapter in his basketball journey. The Boston Celtics guard arrived at 2:30 a.m. after a long flight from the United States, called up to replace the injured Kawhi Leonard for Team USA. This interruption in White's offseason plans came at a moment when he had intended to enjoy a family vacation in Cabo.
The narrative of White's journey with Team USA is reminiscent of his 2019 experience. Back then, he was a last-minute addition to the senior team for the World Cup in China. Playing initially with the Select Team, White secured the final roster spot after higher-profile guards like De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew. This perseverance and ability to seize opportunities have become hallmarks of White's career.
This recent call-up happened while White was conducting his annual basketball camp in his hometown of Parker, Colorado. Despite the unexpected nature of the call-up, White's enthusiasm was palpable. "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," he said.
White's arrival comes at a high point in his career trajectory. He recently agreed to a four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics. Moreover, the Celtics' NBA title last month marked a pinnacle of a season noted for White's defensive versatility and high-impact plays. This championship experience, paired with his versatility on the court, has made him an invaluable asset for Team USA.
On the practice courts, White reunited with Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, as well as former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy, who now serves as an assistant with Team USA. The camaraderie and familiarity among the players bode well for their team dynamics. "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 shared.
However, the team faces its setbacks. Forward Kevin Durant will miss Monday's exhibition game against Australia due to a rehabilitating strained calf. Coach Steve Kerr confirmed that Durant did not have contact at practice, focusing instead on shooting drills and rehab work. This absence places added importance on White's defensive prowess and adaptability, attributes that are critical to filling the void left by Durant’s temporary absence.
As White integrates back into the national team framework, his prior experience with the senior team and his defensive acumen will be vital. The moments on the practice courts, albeit early in the morning hours, signify more than just preparation for upcoming exhibitions—they are a continuation of White's relentless journey in the sport.
In connecting the dots between his unexpected inclusion in 2019 and the present moment, it is clear that White's story is one of resilience and readiness. Whether securing the last roster spot or stepping up to replace an injured star, Derrick White embodies the spirit of seizing every moment, a true asset for any team he represents.