Derrick White's Unforeseen Elevation with Team USA
As Derrick White stood on the practice courts Sunday, it marked the beginning of another unexpected chapter in his basketball journey. This latest twist saw White arriving at 2:30 a.m. after a grueling flight from the U.S., called upon to replace the injured Kawhi Leonard. What was supposed to be a family vacation in Cabo has turned into an opportunity to showcase his skills on the world stage once more.
The scenario rings a familiar bell for White, who experienced a similar last-minute call-up in 2019. Back then, he was added to the senior team for the World Cup in China after initially playing with the Select Team. White secured the final roster spot after more prominent guards like De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew, proving pivotal to the team’s efforts.
This recent call-up sprung from White's hometown of Parker, Colorado, where he was conducting his annual basketball camp. Reflecting on his journey, White shared, "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's current form and recent achievements add weight to his excitement. Having recently agreed to a four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics, his stock has never been higher. The Celtics’ NBA title last month was a pinnacle of a season that highlighted White's defensive versatility and high-impact plays. This championship experience makes him an invaluable asset for Team USA, especially when juxtaposed against current team dynamics and injuries.
At practice, White reunited with Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, as well as former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy, now an assistant with Team USA. Tatum voiced 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 team will undoubtedly benefit from White's defensive prowess and adaptability. His ability to seamlessly transition from one role to another makes him a reliable option for Coach Steve Kerr, who announced that Kevin Durant would miss Monday's exhibition game against Australia due to a rehabilitating strained calf. Durant had no contact at practice, focusing only on shooting drills and rehab work, adding urgency to White’s presence and contribution.
The added responsibilities come naturally to White, whose career has been a testament to seizing opportunities. The calling to represent his country isn’t just another achievement in his already impressive resume but a testament to his resilience and continuous improvement. During a period where Team USA needs all hands on deck, White’s inclusion could very well prove crucial to their success.
As practices continue and games unfold, Derrick White will look to bring the same energy and readiness that turned him from a Select Team hopeful to a World Cup participant in 2019. The stage may be different, but the stakes remain high, and White is prepared to leave an indelible mark on this chapter of Team USA's journey.