The Number’s Meaning
White has worn No. 9 since joining the Celtics in 2022. It’s not just a number it’s an identity.
“Nine is my favorite number… when I see people wearing it in The Garden, and it’s a Nike jersey, I’m like, ‘Oh, I know that’s mine,'” White explained.
The visual matters to him. Seeing fans in the stands wearing his number, in official team merchandise, represents something deeper than digits on a backplate.
The Offer
White didn’t specify the exact figure Vucevic proposed, but he made clear it was substantial enough to warrant consideration and rejection.
“He offered me $5 million,” White revealed, according to multiple reports .
The two-time All-Star center has worn No. 9 for the majority of his NBA career, including his nearly six seasons with the Chicago Bulls. When he was traded to Boston at the deadline.
He assumed wrong.
The Standoff
White’s refusal forced Vucevic to pivot. The big man ultimately settled on No. 4 with the Celtics—a number he’s worn before, including during his college days at USC.
The negotiation was lighthearted but firm. White made clear that even a multimillion-dollar incentive wasn’t enough to separate him from his favorite number.
The Bigger Picture
The number dispute is a minor footnote in what has been a seamless integration for Vucevic. He joins a Celtics team sitting comfortably atop the Eastern Conference, adding frontcourt depth alongside Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford.
White, meanwhile, is having his best season yet: averaging 17.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. His defensive impact remains elite, and his offensive game has expanded each year.
The Bottom Line
Nikola Vucevic offered $5 million for No. 9. Derrick White said no.
In a league where everything eventually has a price, White just proved that some things jersey numbers, personal identity, the sight of fans wearing your name in the stands are still priceless.
