As Derrick White stepped onto the practice courts this past Sunday, it signaled yet another unexpected chapter in his remarkable basketball journey. Fresh off a long flight from the United States, White arrived at 2:30 a.m., prepared to fill the void left by the injured Kawhi Leonard. The call to action came while White was in his hometown of Parker, Colorado, conducting his annual basketball camp. What was set to be a family vacation in Cabo has now turned into a pivotal moment in his career.
White's sudden elevation to Team USA isn't a novel experience for the versatile guard. Recalling a similar scenario from 2019, White was a last-minute inclusion to the senior team for the World Cup in China. That year, he transitioned from the Select Team to the senior squad, taking the final roster spot after high-profile guards such as De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew. The 2019 experience served as a significant growth period for White, honing his skills and situational adaptability on an international stage.
"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," said White, reflecting on his journey and growth over the past few years.
White's Stellar 2023 Season
White's recent call-up to Team USA comes after a stellar season with the Boston Celtics, where he agreed to a four-year, $126 million contract extension. The Celtics' NBA title win last month stood as a testament to a season marked by White's defensive versatility and high-impact plays. His performance on the court, especially his defensive acumen, has been integral to the Celtics' success, making him a valuable asset for any team he joins.
Teammate Jayson Tatum expressed his enthusiasm about reuniting with White. "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 remarked.
Joining Team USA
White's return to the national spotlight sees him joining familiar faces from the Celtics, including Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, along with former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy, now an assistant coach with Team USA. White's defensive prowess and championship experience come at a crucial time as Team USA faces various challenges ahead.
Kevin Durant, another critical piece of the puzzle for Team USA, will miss the upcoming exhibition game against Australia due to a strained calf. Coach Steve Kerr elaborated on Durant's condition, noting that the star forward had been limited to shooting drills and rehab work, avoiding any contact during practice sessions.
White's inclusion is timely, offering Team USA substantial depth and defensive capability. His seamless adaptability and experience, from the NBA championship to international play, equip him to make significant contributions. White's journey adds yet another fascinating layer to Team USA's narrative, as they prepare for the competitive challenges that lie ahead.
As preparations continue and the team builds synergy, the addition of Derrick White stands out as a strategic and morale-boosting move. His growth from an unexpected addition in 2019 to a key player in 2023 mirrors his commitment and evolution within the sport. White's presence not only fills a gap left by injury but elevates the team's dynamics with his championship pedigree and relentless work ethic.
As Derrick White continues to integrate with Team USA, basketball fans can expect a spirited and impactful performance. His story underscores the unpredictability and excitement that make basketball a sport where anything can happen, often with spectacular results.