By now, it is not exactly news to most fans of the Boston Celtics that recently retired vet big man Blake Griffin was a good teammate. But we are all collectively still learning about why the Oklahoma native was so beloved by his teammates on the Celtics roster for the brief time he was part of the team.
One such example of his chronic friendliness and professionalism that has percolated into the public consciousness since Griffin retired from the game is a story from Boston teammate Derrick White. Speaking on an episode of his “White Noise” podcast with cohost Alex Welsh, the University of Colorado – Boulder alum broke down a moment that really endeared him to Griffin while both were suiting up for the Celtics. “One thing I remember is—we were at dinner or something—and he pulled me aside and was like, ‘I didn’t realize how good you were until I was on the team with you,’” said the Colorado native.
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“He’s like, ‘You know, you play someone every now and then, and you don’t really know. You’re not watching every game.’,” added White. “He’s like, ‘I had no idea.’”
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – FEBRUARY 14: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks is defended by Blake Griffin #91, Grant Williams #12 and Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics during a game at Fiserv Forum on February 14, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Bucks defeated the Celtics 131-125 in overtime. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
“And I was like, ‘Oh, thanks, Blake.’” recounted the Celtics floor general. “That gave me a lot of confidence—reassurance, I guess.”
“Blake believed in me. I’m doing something right. He didn’t have to do that, but he pulled me aside and told me. So that was dope.”
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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Derrick White on Blake Griffin’s praise while with Celtics