Derrick White has never been the type of player who actively chases attention or headlines, but when his NBA 2K26 rating flashed across the screen, even he couldn’t hide his smile. For a guard who has built his career on consistency, defense, and doing the little things that don’t always show up in the box score, the recognition from one of basketball’s most popular video games marks a major moment in his steady rise.
Last year, White earned an 88 overall in NBA 2K25, a rating that many considered both a surprise and a well-deserved acknowledgment of his value to the Boston Celtics. It was his highest rating ever, cementing him among the league’s most reliable two-way guards. That number also sparked debate among fans, with some arguing he had outperformed expectations and others suggesting he was still underrated compared to flashier names around the league.
Heading into 2K26, White’s improvement hasn’t gone unnoticed. His ability to guard multiple positions, knock down threes, and thrive in clutch situations makes him a versatile piece for Boston and a nightmare for opponents. In the virtual world of NBA 2K, those traits translate into a player who can fit seamlessly into almost any lineup, whether gamers value defense, shooting, or balanced team play.
For White himself, the smile said it all. Ratings may not define his career, but they do serve as a measure of respect — a nod to the hours of work he has put into becoming more than just a role player. What was once seen as an 88-point surprise in 2K25 might just be the foundation for an even bigger leap in 2K26, both in the game and on the hardwood.
