Derrick White on why he’s happy to stay with the Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics will look noticeably different heading into the upcoming season compared to both last year and their 2024 NBA Championship run. Key contributors like Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Luke Kornet have all parted ways with the team, signaling a significant shift in the roster.

One major piece still in place, however, is Derrick White. The veteran guard signed a four-year, $125.9 million contract extension in July 2024—just weeks after playing a crucial role in helping the Celtics secure their record-breaking 18th NBA title.

White’s extension kicks in this season and runs through the 2028–29 campaign, potentially keeping him in Boston for the remainder of the decade. On the latest episode of his new “White Noise” podcast, White revealed why he was adamant in staying with the Celtics.

“I’d never want to play anywhere else. I wanted to be in Boston…I’ve always said that,” White explained. “It was pretty simple, pretty straightforward. Signing that, I was super excited just to stay in Boston and continue to be a Celtic. Hopefully do great things in Boston.”

White also shared that his decision to stay in Boston was driven by personal reasons, noting that his children were born in the city and that his family has grown to love it there.

“This is what I want. This is what my family wants,” White added. “Boston’s been good. My kids were born in Boston, I kind of developed as a player in Boston. That’s really what it was about — where do I want to be, what’s going to make me happy, and I knew that was going to be in Boston.”

Derrick White was traded to the Boston Celtics on February 10, 2022, during the NBA trade deadline. The Celtics acquired him from the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Josh Richardson, Romeo Langford, a 2022 first-round pick and 2028 first-round pick swap.

Derrick White recently reacted to his NBA 2K26 player rating with a candid and lighthearted response, admitting that while he used to get frustrated with the scores he received from the developers, he’s grown used to it over the years. Now, he takes it in stride—understanding it’s all part of the game, even if it doesn’t always reflect his full impact on the court.

As the Celtics enter a new chapter following major offseason changes, Derrick White stands out as a steady and reliable cornerstone. With a fresh contract, a championship under his belt, and a deep personal connection to Boston, he’s not just committed to the franchise—he’s becoming one of its defining faces. Whether it’s locking down opponents, making smart plays, or brushing off his 2K rating with a smile, White continues to prove that he’s exactly where he belongs.

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