Derrick White‘s move to the Boston Celtics came during the 2021-22 NBA season in a trade that caught him off guard but included a memorable moment. The guard, who had played four seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, was traded in exchange for Romeo Langford, Josh Richardson, a 2022 first-round pick, and a 2028 first-round pick. White recalled the unexpected and humorous way Spurs coach Gregg Popovich broke the news to him about the trade.
White shared that while the team was in Atlanta, Popovich entered the room and bluntly informed him that he had been traded. When White asked where he was going, Popovich reassured him with a deadpan statement:
“We wouldn’t fuck you. We sent you to Boston.”
This unique exchange helped the guard quickly accept the news and made him feel optimistic about fitting in with his new team.
The Night of the Trade: Drinks, Dominoes, and a Sudden Flight
After finding out about the trade, White’s experience took on a hectic tone. He recounted how a staff member named Brendan Bowman reached out to him, offering a bottle to help him unwind. White described spending time playing dominoes and drinking to cope with the surprise of the trade. However, things quickly became more urgent when another team member, Will, informed White that he needed to prepare to catch a flight within an hour and a half.
White agreed to pack and get ready to leave, highlighting how quickly the situation escalated once the trade was announced. The fast-moving change added to the chaotic energy surrounding his transition from San Antonio to Boston.
Derrick White’s Perspectives on Jrue Holiday’s Trade from Boston
This offseason brought more change to the Celtics when Jrue Holiday was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. White spoke with respect about Holiday’s departure, emphasizing the impact the guard had both on and off the court. White remarked on Holiday’s unselfish playstyle and his importance as a teammate and person.
“Jrue could have easily said, ‘Give me the ball,’ but he wasn’t like that. Unbelievable teammate, unbelievable family. You can’t really replace him,” White said.
—Derrick White, Guard
Though Holiday left Boston, the memories of their shared success remain. The two guards contributed significantly to the Celtics’ historic 18th NBA championship during the previous season. While now part of different teams, their championship victory continues to connect them.
The Broader Impact of Derrick White’s Trade and Future Outlook
Derrick White’s trade to Boston marked a turning point in his career, highlighted by Popovich’s remarkable delivery of the news. This trade involved notable players, draft picks, and adjustments for both the Spurs and Celtics. White’s ability to adapt quickly, both mentally and logistically, illustrates the fast-paced nature of the NBA and the personal challenges players face during trades.
His reflections on Jrue Holiday’s exit show how team dynamics evolve and how players value the relationships formed beyond the game. Moving forward, White’s role in Boston will continue to develop as he builds on the foundation established during his transition season. The humor and humanity in his trade experience reveal the personal side of NBA transactions that fans often do not see.