He made an immediate impact with the Nuggets,scoring eight points,15 rebounds,three blocks,two assists and a steal against Cleveland. Then came 14 points,five rebounds,two steals and a block against the Los Angeles Clippers. He finished with seven points,nine rebounds and two assists against the Utah Jazz on Monday.
Jack White was a central piece for Melbourne United last season but the NBL franchise now has another roster spot to fill.Credit:Getty Images
Overall,he averaged eight points on 70 per cent shooting,6.5 rebounds and one steal.
Coming off a torn Achilles tendon,White averaged 9.3 points while shooting 54 per cent from the field for United last season,before the defending champions fell in the semi-finals.
“Now he’s the most inspiring example of being defined by your comebacks,not your setbacks,” White’s manager,Sam Wloszczowski,said.
Considered a future Boomers captain because of his strong values,the Traralgon-born White understands what it takes to succeed at the elite level. He is a team-first player,an excellent defender,strong rebounder and passer,and has been working on his long-range shooting. He will give the Nuggets depth at the wing position.
He is a former Duke captain,having played under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski,and alongside NBA stars including Jayson Tatum,Zion Williamson,RJ Barrett and Grayson Allen.
White’s defection means United have more work to do on their roster,for they had already lost starting centre Jo Lual-Acuil jnr,who was also at Summer League,with the Phoenix Suns. Playmaker Matthew Dellavedova has been working out with the Sacramento Kings.
White’s signing comes afterDyson Daniels and Luke Travers were the latest Australian additions to the NBA,having been drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans and Cleveland Cavaliers respectively.
Several Australians impressed in the Summer League,including star point guard Josh Giddey,who opted to kickstart his second season with the Oklahoma City with competitive play. The No.6 pick in the 2021 NBA draft averaged 12.8 points,8.8 assists and 1.2 steals in five games,and built chemistry with Chet Holmgren,whom the Thunder took with the No.2 pick in last month’s draft.
Sports news,results and expert commentary.Sign up for our Sport newsletter.