Blake Griffin played a significant role off the bench in what turned out to be his final season in the NBA during his brief one-season stay with the Celtics. But because he was a terrific locker room presence and interacted with several players on the squad, he made an impression on almost every Celtics teammate.
On his White Noise podcast, Derrick White shared a significant Griffin moment from their 2022–2023 season together. After being traded from the Spurs halfway through the previous season, White was playing his first complete season with the Celtics. Since he was still developing as a role player, Griffin’s remarks were particularly significant.
White recalled that he pulled me aside while we were having supper or whatever. He said, “Being on a team with you made me realize how good you were.” Every now and then, you play someone. You’re not entirely sure. Not every game is being watched by you. “I had no idea,” he says. I said, “Thank you, Blake.”
That made me feel very confident. I’m not sure if the phrase “reassurance” is appropriate, but it gives me a lot of confidence to keep trying since Blake believes in me. I’m doing it correctly. He drew me aside and informed me, but he didn’t have to. That was awesome.
After a few years, the league is aware of White’s skill level. He played a significant role in the Celtics’ run to the NBA title in 2024. White’s tip-in basket against the Heat in Game 6 of the 2023 East Finals was one of his career’s most memorable plays. He also had incredible postseason games on the grandest stage.
However, White had some playoff difficulties prior to all of that. After setting the Celtics’ single-season 3-point record the previous season, he was candid about how the Warriors’ performance in the 2022 NBA Finals inspired him to improve as a shooter. White’s road to reach his current position as a player took some time before he was regarded as one of the best role players in today’s game.
After his season with the Celtics, Griffin decided to retire, capping a 14-year career. Early in his career, Griffin was a high-flying dunker, but by the conclusion of it, he had transformed into a point forward. Throughout his career, he was named All-NBA five times, made six All-Star teams, and his spectacular dunks were a regular feature in the early 2010s. He made an effect on several people, including White, and his connection with Payton Pritchard is well-known.
According to White, he sort of held us all together that year. He was able to get along with everyone. He is capable of becoming serious. He is able to joke. He is capable of doing somewhat of everything. This is Blake Griffin, so it was fantastic. But there are plenty of All-Stars and All-NBAs. He has accomplished a lot in this league. He was prepared to make a sacrifice. He was prepared to ride the first bus and perform his duties as if he were a new athlete or rookie.
