Unpacking Derrick White's Summer League side quest as a Celtics coach

Las Vegas -- Derrick White joined the Boston Celtics' coaching staff for Sunday's 87-75 win over the Charlotte Hornets. He quickly took to the role. The veteran guard was energetic, and he repeatedly pulled players aside for some one-on-one coaching throughout the contest. He even worked the referees a little bit.

"He brought great vibes, great energy, and we appreciate him being here," expressed John Tonje after the Sin City C's improved to 2-0.

So, how did this opportunity come about? According to Amile Jefferson, White's application was processed immediately.

"He's such a good guy, man. Me and him have gotten really close. Love that dude," said the Celtics' Summer League head coach. We talked about it. He was like, 'I'm going to come coach a game.' I was like, 'Come on, let's do it.'"

It was an invaluable chance for a young group, striving to grow their game, with many on the roster fighting for their careers, to gain insight from a decorated veteran, an NBA champion, and a core member of Boston's roster.

"It was really good for our guys to see him doing that, to be around them, to share his knowledge with them, and then to just motivate them on the bench," said Jefferson. "That breeds Celtics culture. That's what it's about."

Summer League Celtics grateful for 'coach' White

Boston's backcourt stalwart was eager to lend his tutelage. From Hugo Gonzalez to second-round pick Dillon Mitchell and Milos Uzan, if there was a break in the action, chances are someone on the roster was receiving advice from a guard who is about to enter his 10th year in the Association.

Sometimes, White's message was simple.

"He told me I can't get tired, so that was the main thing he said to me. You're not allowed to get tired," shared Mitchell.

And as White put in work on the sideline, Jordan Walsh looked on from the other side of the Cox Pavilion. The burgeoning wing, whose working toward an offensive evolution, enjoyed watching White enthusiastically approach what could become his future profession.

Did seeing White try his hand at coaching inspire Walsh to want to do the same?

"No, I do not want to coach at all," he shared matter-of-factly. "I have no intentions of doing that. He blends right in, though, like he fits the profile perfectly," said Walsh.

And while this may have been a one-time coaching cameo for White, as Jefferson said, "If it is, he'll probably go down as the only coach in history to be undefeated. So that'll be a cool stat to add to his resume."

Boston's Summer League bench boss also echoed Walsh's sentiment about how impressively the All-Defensive First Team selection took to his role on the coaching staff. He offered rave reviews at the conclusion of White's Summer League side quest.

"He's a natural. If he wanted to be, he'd be a head coach. I truly believe that. If he ever wants to do it, he'd be amazing," voiced Jefferson. "He just has [a] great feel for people. Obviously, we all know how cerebral he is and his basketball mind, and so he's a natural. He'd be amazing at it."

Perhaps White's day on the Celtics' Summer League coaching staff provided a glimpse into what the future holds for him when his playing career ends. From his acumen to his leadership and people skills, he certainly has the traits to thrive in that space.

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