20 Facts About Derrick White

Early Life and Background

Derrick White's journey to the NBA is a story of perseverance and hard work. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life and background.

1. Born on July 2, 1994, in Parker, Colorado, Derrick White grew up in a sports-loving family. His father, Richard White, played college basketball, which inspired Derrick to pursue the sport.

2. White attended Legend High School in Parker, Colorado. Despite his talent, he was not heavily recruited by major college programs, which led him to start his college career at a smaller school.

3. Derrick White played his first three college seasons at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS), a Division II school. He was a standout player, averaging 25.8 points per game in his junior year.

4. After three years at UCCS, White transferred to the University of Colorado Boulder for his senior year. He made an immediate impact, leading the team in scoring, assists, and blocks.

College Career Highlights

Derrick White's college career was marked by impressive performances and significant achievements. Let's dive into some key highlights.

5. During his senior year at the University of Colorado Boulder, White averaged 18.1 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. His all-around performance caught the attention of NBA scouts.

6. White was named to the All-Pac-12 First Team and the Pac-12 All-Defensive Team in his senior year. His defensive prowess and scoring ability made him a standout player in the conference.

7. In the 2017 Pac-12 Tournament, White scored a career-high 31 points against Arizona State, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

NBA Draft and Early Career

Derrick White's transition to the NBA was a significant milestone in his career. Here are some key facts about his draft and early years in the league.

8. The San Antonio Spurs selected Derrick White with the 29th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. His selection was seen as a testament to his hard work and determination.

9. White spent most of his rookie season with the Austin Spurs, the G League affiliate of the San Antonio Spurs. He averaged 20.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game in the G League.

10. In April 2018, White helped the Austin Spurs win the G League championship, earning Finals MVP honors for his outstanding performance.

Breakout Performances

Derrick White's breakout performances in the NBA have solidified his reputation as a talented and reliable player. Here are some notable moments.

11. White's breakout game came on January 10, 2019, when he scored a then-career-high 23 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder. His performance included 8 rebounds and 5 assists.

12. In the 2019 NBA Playoffs, White had a standout performance in Game 3 of the first round against the Denver Nuggets. He scored a career-high 36 points, leading the Spurs to a crucial victory.

13. White's defensive skills were on full display during the 2019 playoffs. He recorded 3 steals and 2 blocks in Game 1 against the Nuggets, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.

International Play and Recognition

Derrick White's talent has also been recognized on the international stage. Here are some key facts about his international play and recognition.

14. In 2019, White was selected to join the USA Basketball Men's National Team for the FIBA Basketball World Cup. His selection highlighted his growing reputation as a top-tier player.

15. White played a key role in helping Team USA secure a seventh-place finish in the 2019 FIBA World Cup. He averaged 6.8 points and 2.5 assists per game during the tournament.

16. White's performance in the FIBA World Cup earned him praise from coaches and teammates alike. His ability to adapt to different roles and contribute in various ways was highly valued.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond basketball, Derrick White has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some interesting facts about his life off the court.

17. White is known for his humility and work ethic. Despite his success, he remains grounded and focused on continuous improvement.

18. Derrick White is an avid video game enthusiast. He often streams his gameplay on platforms like Twitch, where he interacts with fans and fellow gamers.

19. White is also passionate about giving back to the community. He frequently participates in charity events and youth basketball clinics, inspiring the next generation of players.

20. Derrick White married his longtime girlfriend, Hannah Schneider, in August 2021. The couple's wedding was a private affair, attended by close family and friends.

Derrick White: A Rising Star

Derrick White's journey from a small college player to an NBA standout is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, hard work, and talent have made him a key player for the San Antonio Spurs. From his impressive defensive skills to his ability to score under pressure, White has proven he's a force to be reckoned with on the court.

Beyond basketball, Derrick's story is a testament to perseverance. Overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities, he shows that with the right mindset, anything is possible. Whether you're a die-hard NBA fan or just love a good underdog story, White's career offers plenty to admire.

As he continues to grow and evolve, there's no doubt Derrick White will keep making headlines. Keep an eye on this rising star; his best is yet to come.