In a moment that will be etched in Boston Celtics lore, Derrick White stood stoically at midcourt as his teammates erupted in celebration around him on Monday night. White’s demeanor reflected a quiet confidence and a readiness to continue the journey after hitting the tie-breaking 3-pointer with 43 seconds left, securing a 105-102 victory in Game 4 over the Indiana Pacers. This win not only clinched the Celtics’ second trip to the NBA Finals in three years but also completed a dominant 4-0 sweep in the Eastern Conference Finals.
White’s game-winning shot was the highlight of an otherwise modest performance. He scored 16 points and struggled from beyond the arc, making just one of his eight 3-point attempts before the decisive basket. Throughout the game, White appeared to take a back seat to his star teammates—Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Tatum was particularly impressive, contributing 26 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists, while Jrue Holiday and the veteran Al Horford also made significant impacts.
Despite his earlier struggles, White’s unwavering focus and poise in the clutch moments exemplified his crucial role in the team’s success. When the Celtics needed a pivotal basket to edge closer to their 18th NBA title, it was White who stepped up and delivered. His corner 3-pointer, executed with precision and confidence, is a shot that will be remembered by Celtics fans for years to come.
The Celtics’ victory over the Pacers showcased the depth and resilience of their roster. Throughout the series, different players stepped up to contribute, underscoring the team’s collective strength. This versatility and depth will be vital as Boston prepares to face either the Dallas Mavericks or the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are set to meet on Tuesday in Game 4 of their series.
As the Celtics advance to the NBA Finals, their sights are firmly set on capturing their 18th championship title. Derrick White’s clutch performance in Game 4 serves as a testament to the team’s determination and readiness to seize the moment. While his stoic stance at midcourt may have contrasted with the jubilation of his teammates, it perfectly encapsulated the Celtics’ focus and resolve as they continue their quest for basketball glory.
