After another impressive performance in Boston’s 134-101 win over San Antonio, Derrick White received All-Star chants from the crowd and his old coach Gregg Popovich reflected on how far he’s come.
White scored 17 points, three rebounds and five assists in the victory and the guard was stoked to have the crowd chanting “White’s an all-star” at Frost Bank Center.
“I’m just thankful and grateful,” White said during his postgame press conference. “I just try to go out there and help us win. I think if I was to make the all-star game, it’s because of how much we’re winning and the type of team we have. So, I’m just thankful to be a part of this team and this organization and the culture that we’re building here. Me making it or not making it doesn’t change the fact that I’m thankful to be here.”
The chants were a bit of fun, but calls for White to be considered for an All-Star jersey have been seriously increasing.
His head coach Joe Mazzulla, teammate Jayson Tatum and former NBA player-turned analyst JJ Redick have been leading the charge.
Before the New Year’s Eve matchup, White’s old coach Popovich took a moment to recognise his former player.
“I just couldn’t be more proud of a player,” Popovich said. “When he first came, I don’t think he believed he belonged in the NBA. And to watch him develop through the years here, starting with the G League and playing with us and then starting for us and then taking more steps in Boston has just been a thrill to watch.
“He’s one of the greatest guys ever and his confidence has just exploded. It’s been a process. He’s been in the league six, seven years? I’m not sure anymore, but he’s a great story. Starting out at the bottom and believing in himself and doing the work necessary to get where he is now. So, just thrilled for him.”
White was drafted by the Spurs in 2017 and played under Pop until the 2022 trade deadline, where he was traded to Boston in exchange for Romeo Langford, Josh Richardson, and a first-round pick.
READ MORE: Is Derrick White Making a Case For All-Star Selection?