Rookie Boston Celtics wing Hugo Gonzalez had made a name for himself in Europe with Real Madrid as a young prospect with a motor that is unmatched in terms of intensity. And the Madrid native has shown in spades that this reputation is based in rock-solid facts based on what we have seen from him on the court.
And after the Celtics’ 129-116 victory over the Miami Heat at TD Garden this past Friday (Dec. 19) night, veteran teammate Derrick White had to say something about Gonzalez’ absurd motor as well, the Boston rookie an instrumental part of changing the energy in the game’s second half to secure the win. “I saw what everyone was saying about him (Hugo González) during summer league, that he just never stops,” recalled White.
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“So, it’s kind of what I expected when I got here, and it’s been true,” added the University of Colorado – Boulder alum. “Since day one it’s been true.”
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – DECEMBER 19: Jaime Jaquez Jr. #11 of the Miami Heat drives to the basket against Hugo Gonzalez #28 and Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics during the first half at TD Garden on December 19, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
“He came in and competes at a high level, plays hard, obviously (he) makes some mistakes, but you never have to question his effort,” said White.
“He was big-time for us tonight—he kind of changed the game with his energy. He does a lot of things for us, getting those 50-50 balls and just creating turnovers. I love the way he competes.”
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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: When it comes to Hugo Gonzalez’ motor with Celtics, Derrick White is a believer