An Unexpected Call-Up: Derrick White Joins Team USA Amid High Hopes
As Derrick White stood on the practice courts Sunday, it marked the beginning of another unexpected chapter in his basketball journey. White's arrival at 2:30 a.m. after a long flight from the U.S. came as he was summoned to replace the injured Kawhi Leonard, thrusting him back onto the international stage in what has become a hallmark of his resilient career.
White's latest assignment with Team USA disrupts his plans for some well-earned relaxation. He had intended to enjoy a family vacation in Cabo, a reprieve after what had been a whirlwind few months. Instead, he found himself donning the national colors once more, a deja vu moment recalling his last-minute addition to the senior team for the World Cup in China back in 2019. Then, White had been playing with the Select Team and secured the final roster spot after higher profile guards like De'Aaron Fox and Trae Young withdrew.
White's recent call-up found him in his hometown of Parker, Colorado, where he was conducting his annual basketball camp. The news of his summons to Team USA was another twist in a period already highlighted by a significant career milestone. White recently agreed to a four-year, $126 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics, a deal reflective of his vital role and growing influence within the team. The Celtics' NBA title last month marked a pinnacle, showcasing White's defensive versatility and high-impact plays.
Now reunited with Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum and former team advisor Jeff Van Gundy, who is an assistant with Team USA, White's renewed presence is anticipated to inject the squad with proven championship mettle. Tatum himself acknowledged the value White brings to the team: "I haven't seen D-White since the parade, so excited to have him here. He'll bring some championship DNA to this team."
Team USA certainly needs all the depth it can muster, especially with forward Kevin Durant sidelined for Monday's exhibition game against Australia due to a rehabilitating strained calf. Coach Steve Kerr indicated that Durant did not participate in contact drills during practice, focusing instead on shooting drills and rehab work. White’s ability to step into the gap and solidify the roster cannot be understated.
White's own remarks reveal a blend of humility and readiness. Reflecting on his unexpected yet consistent journey with Team USA, he noted, "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."
Such confidence is precisely what Team USA will require. White's defensive prowess, championship experience, and adaptability make him an invaluable asset as they prepare for the upcoming challenges. His story is not just about being in the right place at the right time but also about seizing opportunities with tenacity and grace.
As Derrick White steps onto the practice court, it's not just another day in the office. It's a reaffirmation of his journey and an opportunity to once again etch his name into basketball's storied narrative.