Coby White

Coby White was born on February 16, 2000, in Goldsboro, North Carolina, where he developed into one of the most prolific scorers in North Carolina high school basketball history. His ability to score from all three levels was evident early, and he set multiple state records during a brilliant prep career that made him one of the top recruits in the country.

White attended the University of North Carolina, where he played under legendary coach Roy Williams and experienced the pressure of one of college basketball's most storied programs. His freshman season was impressive, averaging nearly 17 points per game while adapting to the Tar Heels' system and the demands of ACC basketball competition.

Selected seventh overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2019 NBA Draft, White arrived with high expectations and the challenge of contributing to a franchise in transition. His rookie season showed flashes of the scoring ability that had made him a lottery pick, but consistency remained a work in progress as he adjusted to the speed and physicality of NBA basketball.

White's development took a significant leap during the 2023-24 season, when he emerged as one of the Bulls' most important players. His increased efficiency from three-point range, combined with improved playmaking and defensive effort, transformed him from a bench scorer into a key rotation piece on a playoff-contending team.

His playing style is built around his electric scoring ability. White's quick release three-point shot is among the most dangerous in the NBA when he gets hot, and his ability to go on explosive scoring runs in short periods of time can single-handedly swing the momentum of basketball games.

White's improvement on the defensive end has been crucial to his expanded role. Once seen as a one-dimensional scorer, his increased attention to defensive positioning and effort has made him a more complete guard and a player that coaches trust in crucial lineup combinations during important NBA games.

The North Carolina native's journey from lottery pick to potential trade piece to valued contributor illustrates the non-linear nature of NBA development. White's willingness to accept a bench role, continue improving, and wait for his opportunity demonstrates the patience and maturity needed for sustained NBA success.

As White continues to develop with the Bulls, his combination of scoring punch, improving efficiency, and growing two-way contributions make him an increasingly valuable NBA player whose best years may still be ahead of him in professional basketball.