As Derrick White stood on the practice courts this past Sunday, it marked the beginning of yet another surprising chapter in his basketball odyssey. After all, it was only hours earlier that White had stepped off a transcontinental flight at 2:30 a.m., an unplanned pivot from what was supposed to be a serene family vacation in Cabo.
White's unexpected call-up to Team USA was prompted by the need to replace the injured Kawhi Leonard. The move echoes memories of 2019 when White was a last-minute addition to the senior team for the World Cup in China. That year, he had been playing with the Select Team before securing the final roster spot after higher-profile guards like De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew their participation. "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 said. "I feel (now) like I did back then and I'm just excited to be here."
This new journey commenced while White was in his hometown of Parker, Colorado, conducting his annual basketball camp. His meteoric rise in the basketball world continues to be an inspiring narrative, enhanced by his recent four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics. It is a testament to his hard work and undeniable talent.
For Team USA, White reunited with Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, as well as former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy, now an assistant coach with the national team. This camaraderie will be crucial as the team navigates the complexities of international play, especially with forward Kevin Durant sidelined for Monday's exhibition game against Australia due to a strained calf that he is rehabilitating. Coach Steve Kerr has confirmed that Durant did not have contact at practice, instead focusing on shooting drills and rehab work, an indication of cautious optimism regarding his recovery.
The Celtics' NBA title last month marked a pinnacle of a challenging season marked by White's defensive versatility and high-impact plays. "I haven't seen D-White since the parade, so excited to have him here. He'll bring some championship DNA to this team," said Jayson Tatum. White’s defensive prowess, championship experience, and adaptability make him an invaluable asset for Team USA as they aim for Olympic glory.
Indeed, as White takes to the court with Team USA, he carries a blend of humility and resolve that has characterized his career. With every dribble, pass, and defensive stand, White writes another line in his remarkable story—a story that had no intentions of stopping for a vacation.