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“You’re Going Where?” – Derrick White Recalls the Hilarious Moment Pop Told Him He Was Headed to Boston
Derrick White has become a key piece of the Boston Celtics’ championship-caliber puzzle, known for his clutch shooting, rock-solid defense, and calm leadership. But his journey to the East Coast wasn’t just a story of basketball trades and front-office strategy—it also came with a moment of humor that only Gregg Popovich could deliver.
In a recent interview, White opened up about the unforgettable moment he was told he’d been traded from the San Antonio Spurs to the Boston Celtics. And in true Pop fashion, the conversation was anything but ordinary.
“Pop called me into his office. I thought it was just one of those regular team check-ins or something,” White recalled, laughing. “Then he looked at me and said, ‘You’re going to Boston.’”
At first, White said he was confused, unsure if it was a joke or some cryptic message. “I thought he was talking about a team event, or maybe he was messing with me. But then he paused and said, ‘No, seriously. You’ve been traded.’”
While many players might react with shock or sadness, White said the moment felt strangely calm—likely because Popovich delivered it with his usual deadpan delivery and dry humor.
“He looked at me and said, ‘You’re gonna love it there. Cold as hell. But you’ll be fine,’” White said, mimicking Pop’s famously dry tone.
Despite the initial surprise, the trade ended up being a blessing in disguise for White—and for Boston. Since arriving in February 2022, he has grown into a fan favorite, known for his hustle plays, timely threes, and defensive versatility. He was instrumental in the Celtics’ 2024 championship run, proving he wasn’t just a solid role player, but a core contributor.
Looking back now, White sees that hilarious moment as the perfect transition from one legendary coach to another system built for winning.
“I owe a lot to Pop,” he said. “He developed me, believed in me, and honestly, the way he broke the news made the whole thing easier. I’ll never forget it.”
White’s rise in Boston is proof that a well-timed trade—and a well-timed joke—can change everything. And knowing Popovich, that’s probably exactly how he planned it.
