Blake Griffin, known for his energetic play and team-first attitude, spent most of his <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA career with the Los Angeles Clippers before brief periods with the Detroit Pistons, Brooklyn Nets, and Boston Celtics. Although his time in Boston was limited to one season, Derrick White highlights Griffin’s significant influence beyond just on-court performance. White’s reflections on Griffin’s role reveal the lasting impact a player can have without dominating statistics.
Derrick White Reflects on Griffin’s Role During the 2022/23 Season
During an episode of his White Noise podcast, Derrick White recalled Blake Griffin’s presence with the Celtics in the 2022/23 season, a year marked by Boston’s tough loss in the Eastern Conference Finals to the Miami Heat. Despite the team falling short of expectations, Griffin remained a crucial figure in maintaining team unity and boosting morale.
White described Griffin as an essential glue in the locker room, emphasizing his personality and the balance he brought to the team environment.
That year, he kind of kept us all together. He can get along with every person. He can be serious, he can joke, he can do a little bit of everything,
—Derrick White, Celtics Guard
A Leader Behind the Scenes Who Embraced Sacrifice
White further explained how Griffin, despite his accomplishments as a multi-time All-Star and All-NBA player, showed remarkable humility and a willingness to fulfill any role necessary to support the team. Griffin’s attitude and actions served as inspiration for teammates who admired his readiness to contribute without complaint.
It was awesome because this is Blake Griffin. However many All-Stars, All-NBAs, he’s done so much in this league, and he was willing to sacrifice. He was willing to take the first bus. Do what he needs to do. He didn’t have to do that. We were able to stay together because of Blake.
—Derrick White, Celtics Guard
Throughout the season, Griffin was known for his composed demeanor coupled with a preparedness to rise to critical moments, even if his athleticism had diminished compared to earlier years.
Griffin’s Personal Encouragement Lifted Derrick White’s Confidence
In addition to his leadership qualities, Griffin made a personal impact on White by affirming his potential and contributions to the team. That support helped White build confidence and stay motivated during the season.
We were doing dinner or something, and he pulled me aside and was like, ’ I didn’t realize how good you were until I was on a team with you,’
—Derrick White, Celtics Guard
It gave me a lot of confidence,
White added.
It gave me reassurance. A lot of confidence to keep going. ‘Blake believe me, so I’m doing something right.’ He ain’t have to do that, but he just pulled me aside and told me. Blake is unbelievable.
—Derrick White, Celtics Guard
Griffin’s Legacy in Boston: Beyond the Stats
Blake Griffin’s single season with the Celtics did not translate into highlight dunks or game-leading statistics, but his impact was felt deeply in the locker room through humor, leadership, and a selfless approach. His presence fostered team cohesion during a challenging year and left a lasting impression on key players like Derrick White.
Griffin’s readiness to set aside personal glory in favor of team goals exemplified what many consider the true measure of a veteran player’s value. Though brief, his time in Boston solidified his reputation as a beloved teammate who contributed meaningfully off the court as much as on it.