Spurs coach discusses Derrick White’s impact on both his team and the Celtics
Ahead of the Celtics’ 116-103 victory over the Spurs on Wednesday, Spurs interim head coach Mitch Johnson reflected on his time coaching guard Derrick White in the G League.
“We won the championship, and it was a joke that he was even on the floor, he was that good,” Johnson said in reference to the 2017-18, when he worked with White as an assistant coach for the Austin Spurs.
Against his former team, White had a nice contribution for the Celtics, shooting 43.8 percent from the floor, for 19 points. Over his time in Boston, White become a fan favorite and has been key for the team as both a starter and bench piece.
“[White] was a foundational piece of our team,” Johnson said about the 2022 trade that brought White to the Celtics. “So it was a very difficult decision … for everyone involved. I do think we felt good about him going to a really good situation here in Boston, which, obviously, it’s been that and more.”
As a Celtic, White has complemented the stars of the C’s well. Since joining the team, he’s averaged 14.6 points per game and has been a very strong defensive presence on the court. In the 2024-25 season, he’s averaging 0.8 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 1.5 turnovers per game.
Johnson’s comments speak to White’s character, both on and off the court. He has been a large addition for the Celtics, and it’s clear that he has the personality of a true professional.
Luke Graham is a digital sports content co-op for 98.5 the Sports Hub. He is currently a sophomore communications student at Northeastern University. Follow him on X @LukeGraham05.
