An Unanticipated Call-Up: Derrick White Joins Team USA
As Derrick White stood on the practice courts Sunday, it marked the beginning of another unexpected chapter in his basketball journey. Arriving at 2:30 a.m. after a long flight from the U.S., White's presence was necessitated by the unfortunate injury to Kawhi Leonard, whose absence created a vacancy that White was all too familiar with filling.
White's unexpected journey to Team USA recalls a similar story from 2019. Then, he was a last-minute addition to the senior team for the World Cup in China, originally playing with the Select Team before securing the final roster spot after higher profile guards like De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew. This mirrored call-up came while White was in his hometown of Parker, Colorado, conducting his annual basketball camp. The change of plans was abrupt—White initially intended to enjoy a family vacation in Cabo—but his dedication to the sport and team has once again brought him to the international stage.
Reflecting on his past and present roles with Team USA, 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."
Big Shoes to Fill
Replacing an injured star is never easy, but White's recent achievements have shown he's more than capable of rising to the occasion. Recently agreeing to a four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics, White played a pivotal role in their NBA title run last month. His defensive versatility and high-impact plays were critical elements of the Celtics' success, and those same qualities will be invaluable to Team USA.
White's return to Team USA also reunites him with several familiar faces. Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum, along with former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy—now serving as an assistant with Team USA—welcomed White back. Tatum expressed 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."
Adapting to Challenges
Team USA faces a critical period of adaptation, particularly with forward Kevin Durant set to miss Monday's exhibition game against Australia due to a rehabilitating strained calf. Coach Steve Kerr confirmed Durant's limited activity, noting that he did not have contact at practice and focused on shooting drills and rehab work.
Durant's absence adds pressure on the rest of the roster to step up, and White's championship experience could not come at a better time. His defensive prowess and adaptability make him a valuable asset for Team USA, especially given the high stakes of international competition. White is expected to slide seamlessly into the team's defensive schemes and provide the stability needed in Durant's absence.
A Testament to Persistence
Derrick White’s journey is a testament to persistence and resilience. From an unexpected call-up in 2019 to joining the national team under similar circumstances in 2023, White has consistently risen to the occasion. His ability to adapt, coupled with his defensive skills and recent championship experience, make him an essential piece for Team USA moving forward.
As the team prepares for upcoming competitions, all eyes will be on how White integrates with the roster and contributes to their collective goals. One thing is certain: Derrick White's journey, though unexpected, is one marked by dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence.