2022 Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart praised Celtics teammate Derrick White following his 21 point performance in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday.

(Via Boston Celtics):

“Derrick, he played for a great organization. He played under a great coach. We knew that Derrick understood the game, the way he plays. Watching him play before we got to USA reminded myself a little bit of me. So, just instantly off the bat I loved the way he played. Coming into that when we would practice, he was never backing down no matter what. When you got a guy like that, and me, a guy like Derrick, it’s always going to be some battles. But, it’s nothing but respect there. That’s what it’s kind of been showing. Every day he’s done something new to make you go. That’s why he’s here.”