Why Celtics’ Derrick White Better Fit For Team USA Than Jaylen Brown

The NBA world went into an uproar when Jaylen Brown was not chosen to replace Kawhi Leonard on Team USA, but the debates largely have left Boston Celtics guard Derrick White out of the conversation.

White was chosen as the first alternate to replace Leonard for the United States Olympic roster. His inclusion gave the Celtics three representatives on Team USA, but it did seem odd to leave out Brown, especially after he won 2024 Finals MVP.

NESN’s Travis Thomas offered his take on the matter on the “Hold My Banner” podcast this week, and he chose to highlight how everyone can learn something from White. He highlighted the merit of putting your head down and working hard to get your opportunities.

Thomas respected Brown’s outspoken opinions, which the 27-year-old expressed after his Team USA snub even to the point of believing Nike played a role in it. However, Thomas also noted how White’s personality might be a better fit for a roster that includes Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant and emerging star Anthony Edwards. Brown would be sitting on the bench with his Boston teammates, which might not gel the best. White is more suited for that type of role, which might have been what USA basketball managing director was searching for in replacing Leonard.

That’s not to say Brown isn’t wrong in his views, but this situation might not have been the right time for that. The Celtics star played down the drama when he won an ESPY award Thursday, but it could be something that continues to linger throughout the summer and through the United States’ gold medal campaign.

Hear more Team USA discussion on “Hold My Banner” in the embedded video above.