Blue Devil Country

Beloved Duke Basketball Alum Sees Big Minutes for Thunder

Duke basketball's Jack White enjoyed career-high playing time in Charlotte on Sunday.

Matt Giles

Duke basketball forward Jack White (Michael Shroyer-USA TODAY Sports)
In this story:

Jack White is arguably the most surprising name on the long list of Duke basketball products currently in the NBA. Nevertheless, the former four-year Blue Devil (2016-20) and two-year captain is on a two-year contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder following one season on a two-way deal with the champion Denver Nuggets.

White hasn't put up any eye-popping numbers through the Thunder's first three preseason games.

However, the 26-year-old Aussie forward came up with a clutch late-game block in the squad's 122-121 home win over the San Antonio Spurs last week.

And in Sunday's 117-115 road loss to the Charlotte Hornets, White received more playing time than in any of his 17 regular season games in the NBA or previous four preseason outings between his time with the Nuggets and Thunder.

He played 27 minutes off the bench, tallying seven points, seven rebounds, one assist, and one steal while shooting 2-for-6 from the floor, 1-for-2 beyond the arc, and 2-for-4 at the charity stripe.

As for the Hornets' lone Duke basketball talent, starting center Mark Williams finished with 11 points, six boards, one assist, one steal, and one block across 22 minutes of action.

It seems somewhat unlikely that White will be a part of Oklahoma City's primary rotation once the regular season gets underway next week. After all, he probably wouldn't have been on the floor so long in Charlotte had the staff not rested several primary weapons.

But there's no doubt Jack White will embrace any role he's given.

"Whatever I can do to help my team win, I'm going to do," the hardworking Duke basketball gem said during media day earlier this month.

The Thunder have two preseason contests remaining. Both are at home: against the Milwaukee Bucks at 8 p.m. ET Tuesday and Detroit Pistons at 8 p.m. Thursday.

List of Every Blue Devil Currently in the NBA

Stay tuned to Blue Devil Country on SI.com for more Duke basketball news.

Published
Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

Home/NBA Blue Devils