Derrick White’s NBA Career
Derrick White, born July 2, 1994, is an American professional basketball player for the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association (NBA). White, a 6’4″ guard, is known for his strong defense and efficient shooting. He played college basketball for the University of Colorado Buffaloes and was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs with the 29th overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft.
White spent four seasons with the Spurs, establishing himself as a reliable two-way player. He averaged 9.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game during his time in San Antonio. White was a key contributor to the Spurs’ playoff run in 2019, where they reached the Western Conference Finals. In the 2021-22 season, he was traded to the Celtics, where he has continued to play a significant role.
White’s strengths include his perimeter defense, shooting ability, and court vision. He is a strong on-ball defender who can guard multiple positions. He is also a capable scorer, with a smooth jump shot and the ability to create his own shot. White’s court vision and passing skills allow him to make plays for his teammates.
However, White’s weaknesses include his size and athleticism. He is not the quickest or most explosive player, which can limit his ability to create separation on offense. He can also be prone to turnovers at times.
Overall, Derrick White is a valuable player who can contribute to both ends of the floor. He is a solid defender, efficient shooter, and willing passer. White has the potential to be a key player for the Celtics in the years to come.
Regular Season Stats
- Points per game: 9.9
- Rebounds per game: 3.6
- Assists per game: 3.5
- Steals per game: 1.1
- Blocks per game: 0.6
Playoff Stats
- Points per game: 11.1
- Rebounds per game: 4.0
- Assists per game: 4.0
- Steals per game: 1.2
- Blocks per game: 0.7
Accomplishments
- NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2019)
- Western Conference Finals (2019)
Highlights
- Recorded a career-high 36 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 12, 2021.
- Had a career-high 12 rebounds against the Oklahoma City Thunder on March 24, 2021.
- Posted a career-high 13 assists against the Indiana Pacers on April 25, 2021.
Derrick White’s Playing Style
Derrick White is a versatile and dynamic guard known for his all-around contributions on the court. He possesses a unique blend of skills that allows him to impact the game in multiple ways.
White is a skilled playmaker with excellent court vision and passing ability. He can create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, often finding open cutters and shooters with pinpoint passes. His ball-handling skills are also impressive, allowing him to navigate through traffic and create space for his shots.
Scoring Ability, Derrick white
White is a capable scorer who can contribute in various ways. He is a reliable three-point shooter, with a smooth stroke and a quick release. He also possesses a strong mid-range game, able to create his own shot and convert difficult shots. In addition, White is a crafty finisher around the rim, using his athleticism and body control to score in traffic.
Defensive Versatility
One of White’s most notable strengths is his defensive versatility. He is a quick and agile defender with excellent lateral movement. White can guard multiple positions effectively, from point guards to small forwards. His defensive instincts and anticipation allow him to disrupt passing lanes, generate steals, and contest shots.
Example of Skills
In a game against the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, White showcased his all-around abilities. He recorded a triple-double with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists. White’s impact was evident in every facet of the game, as he made key plays on both ends of the court. He hit crucial three-pointers, dished out no-look passes, and made several timely defensive stops.
Derrick White’s Impact on the Boston Celtics
Derrick White has been a valuable addition to the Boston Celtics since joining the team in February 2022. He has quickly become a key contributor, providing the team with a reliable scoring option, strong defense, and playmaking ability.
White’s Role in the Celtics’ Success
White has played a significant role in the Celtics’ success this season. He has started 45 games and averaged 11.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He has also shot 41.1% from the field and 37.2% from three-point range.
White’s ability to score from all three levels of the court has made him a valuable weapon for the Celtics. He can create his own shot or knock down open shots from beyond the arc. He is also a good passer and can make plays for his teammates.
Complementing the Team’s Other Stars
White has complemented the Celtics’ other stars well. He has played alongside Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Marcus Smart, and he has been able to fit seamlessly into the team’s system.
White is not a ball-dominant player, and he is willing to defer to his teammates. He is also a good defender, and he can help the Celtics guard opposing teams’ best players.
Examples of White’s Contributions
There have been many examples of White making significant contributions to the Celtics’ victories. In a game against the Miami Heat in March 2023, White scored 27 points and hit the game-winning shot with just seconds remaining.
In a game against the Milwaukee Bucks in April 2023, White had 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. He also played a key role in guarding Giannis Antetokounmpo, holding him to just 22 points.