Celtics' Derrick White Labeled Top 5 Player In NBA By Opposing Head Coach

White received one of the biggest compliments of his career on Sunday.

Mar. 8, 2026 at 4:03pm

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Ahead of Sunday's Eastern Conference clash at Rocket Arena, Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson labeled Boston Celtics guard Derrick White a top 5 player in the NBA. White has evolved into a steady leader who stitches lineups together with smart decisions and low turnover rates, and his two-way reliability helped Boston secure an NBA championship in 2024.

Why it matters

White's recognition as a top 5 player in the NBA by an opposing head coach is a significant compliment that highlights his growth and impact on the Celtics. As Boston pushes through the season's final stretch, White's leadership and two-way play will be crucial to their success.

The details

White entered the NBA as the 29th overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2017 draft. After building a foundation there, he joined the Celtics via trade in 2022 and quickly became a cornerstone of their backcourt. His shot-blocking from the perimeter and versatility has earned him multiple All-Defensive team selections. This season, White has shouldered more responsibility amid roster adjustments and injuries, including Jayson Tatum's Achilles rupture. Through 61 games—all starts—White is posting 17.4 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game while converting 90.4 percent of his free throws.

  • White joined the Celtics via trade in 2022.
  • White helped the Celtics secure an NBA championship in 2024.
  • White has captured Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month honors for the first time in February 2026.

The players

Derrick White

A 31-year-old guard for the Boston Celtics who has evolved into a steady leader and two-way player, earning multiple All-Defensive team selections and helping the Celtics win an NBA championship in 2024.

Kenny Atkinson

The head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who labeled Derrick White a top 5 player in the NBA ahead of a matchup between the Cavaliers and Celtics.

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What they’re saying

“Ahead of Sunday's Eastern Conference clash at Rocket Arena, Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson labeled Boston Celtics guard Derrick White a top 5 player in the NBA.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Head Coach

What’s next

The Celtics and Cavaliers will face off on Sunday, March 8, 2026, in a matchup that will showcase Derrick White's skills as one of the top players in the NBA.

The takeaway

Derrick White's recognition as a top 5 player in the NBA by an opposing head coach is a testament to his growth and impact on the Boston Celtics. As the team continues to push through the season's final stretch, White's leadership and two-way play will be crucial to their success.