Derrick White Sets Celtics’ 3-Pointer Record Amid Breakthrough Season

BOSTON, Mass. — In a thrilling game on Monday night, Boston Celtics guard Derrick White made franchise history by surpassing Isaiah Thomas‘ record for the most 3-pointers made in a single season. White achieved this milestone in only his third season with the team, further establishing himself as a key player for the Celtics.

During the Celtics’ victory, White hit his 246th 3-pointer, breaking the previous record of 245 set by Thomas during the 2016-2017 season. Reflecting on his journey, White described a pivotal moment in his career following the 2023 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors. He noted how that experience opened his eyes to the level of defense required at the highest levels of competition.

“After the 2023 Finals, I felt like it was the biggest summer of my life,” White said in the locker room after the game. “What happened in the Finals and how I was being guarded on that stage was one of my lowest points. I told Draymond (Green) after the Olympics that he kind of changed my life because they weren’t guarding me.”

White credited his offseason work with his trainer for helping him enhance his game significantly following that tough series against the Warriors. “I had to focus on being consistent, and I just kept building to get better,” he added.

Now regarded as a formidable offensive asset, White has demonstrated that he demands careful attention from opposing defenses. With Jayson Tatum (240 3-pointers) and Payton Pritchard (237 3-pointers) also closing in on the record this season, the Celtics are in a unique position to have multiple players among the top rankings in 3-pointers.

The Celtics’ performance this season has generated excitement among fans, and White’s record-breaking achievement adds an exciting chapter to his emerging legacy within the team. As the postseason approaches, the Celtics hope to leverage this momentum and deepen their playoff run.