Furthermore, White commended teammate Jaylen Brown for his work ethic.
"I don't think people understand how hard he works.
Every day he's in there working on his game, working on different things he can improve, just watching film and just seeing different ways to improve," White said.
Brown previously lauded White on May 24, 2026, after White secured a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team.
"Had a hell of a defensive season," Brown said, adding that White's "timing & ability to make impact plays…he's gifted at that…His IQ sets himself apart."
The NBA Communications department officially announced the 2025-26 Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team on May 22, 2026, which included White alongside Rudy Gobert, Chet Holmgren, Ausar Thompson, and Victor Wembanyama.
White finished in the top six of defensive voting, helping Boston secure a 56-26 regular-season record despite Jayson Tatum missing most of the season.
The New York Times reported on May 6, 2026, that an anonymous voter strongly endorsed White's impact: "Everyone is trying to say Jaylen Brown is an MVP candidate.
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They're wrong. White has actually been the biggest reason they're so good this season."
