Just two weeks before he turned 29, Brian White gave himself an early birthday gift— getting his first ever USMNT goal. He had a special celebration around the corner flag to mark the occasion. 

With the goal in the January camp, White became the oldest player to score his first USMNT goal since Matt Besler in 2016— who was 29 at the time.

Playing for the USMNT and scoring a goal is a dream come true for White. However, it’s important to note that he did those things in the January camp with an MLS-based squad, not with the main squad. So while it was a moment of celebration, there was still work to be done to get called up to the main USMNT squad.

Well, he met his goal this month. White got called up to the USMNT squad preparing for the Nations League games in LA. It’s a huge moment for the striker, who comes from humble beginnings and had never been a part of USMNT conversations.

Born and raised in New Jersey, White played youth soccer with Players Development Academy, but went off to college at 18, attending Duke University. 

He enjoyed the full college experience. Not only he thrived as an athlete, but he was named a four-time honor roll member and was also a member of a fraternity. 

After graduating with a political science degree, White returned to New Jersey to turn professional at 22 with New York Red Bulls. The first few years weren’t easy. 

After 16 goals in four seasons, White was traded to Vancouver Whitecaps, and that’s where he truly thrived. 

The first year, he scored 12 goals, almost matching his goal tally at Red Bulls in four years. In both 2023 and 2024 seasons, White was the top scoring American player in MLS with 15 goals. 

His performances led to finally making his USMNT debut at 27 last year under Gregg Berhalter, albeit with an MLS-based January camp. This year, he got another chance to impress with Mauricio Pochettino and scored his first goal. 

Pochettino liked what he saw. So given some injuries in the USMNT forward line, he gave White a chance to join the main USMNT squad with Europe-based players for the first time ever.

“Playing for the national team is a dream of every player,” the striker told FOX Sports this week.

“I was never in the youth national teams growing up. I was always on the outside looking in. But I always kept dreaming. It’s something I never gave up on.” 

“You just keep fighting, hoping to one day maybe get the chance.” 

“Obviously, 29 is kind of late. But it is never too late.”

Unlike many other players, White probably won’t stay in the game after retiring. He has interest in exploring finance and the banking sector. 

But while he’s still playing, he’s going to keep working hard for both club and country. White has already become the Vancouver Whitecaps’ all-time leading MLS scorer, and has four goals in eight games this season.

He’s leaving a legacy in that city, and he is ready to make his mark with the USMNT this month.