Derrick White Says “It’s Going to Be Insane” as Luke Kornet Joins San Antonio Spurs in Intriguing Offseason Move

Derrick White couldn’t hide his enthusiasm. In a summer full of trades, free agency chaos, and draft night surprises, one move may have flown under the radar for many — but not for the Boston Celtics guard. As former Celtics teammate Luke Kornet officially inks a deal with the San Antonio Spurs, White believes this new union could be something special.

“It’s going to be insane,” White said on a recent podcast appearance, grinning as he discussed Kornet’s new destination. “Luke is going to fit in really well with what they’re building down there — the culture, the system, everything.”

From Boston Bench Mob to San Antonio’s Rotation

Luke Kornet’s journey to the Spurs marks a significant step in the veteran big man’s NBA career. Known more for his high IQ, underrated rim protection, and the quirky “Kornet Contest” — a unique way of defending shooters without leaving the paint — the 7-foot-2 center carved out a respected role in Boston, even if he was never the headline-grabbing star.

Now, he’ll have a chance to contribute to a team on the rise, headlined by reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama. Kornet joins the Spurs as they look to build around their generational talent and create a team capable of competing in the Western Conference for years to come.

“Luke’s a guy that just gets the game,” White added. “You need players like that around someone like Wemby — guys who know how to help the team even when they’re not scoring 20 points.”

A Rebuilding Spurs Team Gets Veteran Depth

San Antonio finished 14th in the Western Conference last season, but Wembanyama’s brilliance put the NBA world on notice. The French phenom averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game while showing flashes of perimeter skill, shot creation, and defensive dominance.

Adding a veteran like Kornet helps coach Gregg Popovich continue to balance development with experience. While Kornet isn’t expected to start, he could serve as a stabilizing second-unit presence and mentor to the younger bigs behind Wemby — especially given his reputation as a consummate professional.

Sources within the Spurs organization say they see Kornet as a locker room presence who can contribute spot minutes in critical stretches and help anchor the defense when needed. More importantly, his basketball IQ and humility align with the culture San Antonio is known for.

Why Derrick White Thinks It’s the Perfect Match

Derrick White, who spent his first four NBA seasons in San Antonio before being traded to Boston in 2022, remains deeply connected to the franchise. His development under Popovich shaped the gritty, all-business player Celtics fans love today. So when he vouches for a player’s fit with the Spurs, it carries weight.

“Kornet does the little things,” White said. “He communicates. He rotates. He boxes out. He’s unselfish. That’s Spurs basketball. You’ll see it.”

Their chemistry in Boston, particularly in the 2022-2023 season when the Celtics made the Eastern Conference Finals, reflected that synergy. While Kornet’s stats were modest — 3.8 points and 2.9 rebounds in just under 12 minutes per game — his impact was more profound in the advanced metrics and locker room camaraderie.

Popovich’s Interest and Kornet’s Role

Reports indicate Gregg Popovich personally greenlit the move, intrigued by Kornet’s professionalism and understanding of defensive schemes. Popovich has long valued players who embrace roles, maintain focus, and buy into team-first basketball. Kornet checks all those boxes.

With San Antonio’s frontcourt rotation likely including Wembanyama, Zach Collins, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and now Kornet, the Spurs have created a versatile mix of size and skill. Kornet’s ability to stretch the floor as a theoretical shooter and protect the rim gives Popovich another tool, especially when navigating matchups against teams with taller lineups.

“Pop is going to love him,” White added. “He’s going to do exactly what’s asked of him, every single night.”

Boston’s Loss is San Antonio’s Gain

Celtics fans took to social media after the move, with many offering heartfelt farewells to the big man affectionately known as “The Green Kornet.” While Kornet didn’t play heavy minutes, his presence on the bench, during warm-ups, and in practices left a noticeable imprint on the team’s chemistry.

Joe Mazzulla spoke glowingly of him during the 2023-2024 season, praising his “voice” and “consistency.” With the Celtics bringing in new pieces this offseason, including Marcus Smart’s replacement in Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis settling into a larger frontcourt role, Kornet’s minutes were projected to shrink further.

The Spurs, meanwhile, offer a place where he can remain relevant in the rotation, contribute meaningfully, and be part of a young team poised to climb the standings.

What This Means for the Spurs’ Development

While the Kornet signing didn’t grab headlines the way blockbuster trades or max deals did, it’s a move that speaks volumes about San Antonio’s priorities. They’re not just collecting talent; they’re building a sustainable, cohesive team identity around Wembanyama.

Kornet’s arrival also means Wembanyama won’t need to shoulder every defensive responsibility. Even if Kornet plays only 10-15 minutes per game, those minutes can allow the 20-year-old superstar to conserve energy for offense or avoid foul trouble.

Moreover, Kornet’s quiet leadership could be invaluable in a locker room filled with 20-somethings trying to find their place in the league.

What’s Next for Derrick White and the Celtics?

As for White, he’s heading into the 2025-2026 season as one of Boston’s cornerstone pieces. After a breakout year in which he averaged 15.2 points and shot 39.6% from three, he’s become the perfect two-way complement to Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.

With Smart gone, White’s voice within the team has grown louder — on and off the court. His comments about Kornet weren’t just about nostalgia; they were a reminder that culture, humility, and basketball IQ still matter in today’s NBA.

“Luke’s one of the best teammates I’ve ever had,” White said. “He might not make the ESPN highlight reel, but the team always plays better when he’s out there. Spurs fans are going to love him.”

In a league constantly chasing the next superstar pairing or viral moment, the signing of Luke Kornet is refreshingly grounded. It’s about fit, substance, and embracing the grind — the very principles that have defined the San Antonio Spurs for decades.

If Derrick White’s prediction holds true, and Kornet thrives under Popovich’s guidance, this could quietly become one of the smartest under-the-radar moves of the offseason. After all, it’s not always about the flashiest name — sometimes it’s about the guy who does exactly what’s needed, exactly when it’s needed.

And in San Antonio, that guy just might be Luke Kornet.