On Tuesday night, the Chicago Bulls faced the Charlotte Hornets in a game that stood out not only for the competition but also for the return of Coby White to the United Center. White, who was traded from Chicago to Charlotte, made his first appearance back in Chicago, drawing significant attention from fans and players alike.
The Bulls honored White during a first-quarter timeout by showcasing a video tribute on the Jumbotron. The highlight reel traced White’s path from his start in North Carolina in 2019 to becoming a beloved figure in Chicago basketball.
Fan and Player Reactions to White’s Return
Fans at the United Center responded with enthusiastic applause when White appeared, reflecting the high regard held for him. Players from both teams also joined in with applause as White acknowledged the crowd with a wave.
The Bulls pay tribute to Coby White in his first game back in Chicago as part of Charlotte @ClutchPoints pic.twitter.com/5HLxIaEllp
— Zachary Draves, Sports Journalist
Bulls in-game tribute to Coby White pic.twitter.com/MKCsv4IBZY
— M4VERICK_CARTER, Social Media Correspondent
Context of the Game and White’s Status
At the time of White’s return, the Bulls were struggling to break a nine-game losing streak, holding a 24-34 record and yet to secure a win in February. Meanwhile, the Hornets held a 27-31 record with a strong recent performance, winning seven of their last ten games.
Questions surrounded White’s playing status since he had been recovering from a calf injury and had not yet appeared in a game for the Hornets prior to this visit to Chicago.
Coby White’s Career and Impact in Chicago
During his tenure with the Bulls, spanning 29 games, White averaged 18.6 points and 4.7 assists per contest. He was in the final year of his three-year, $36 million contract signed in 2023. Throughout his time in Chicago, White established himself as a reliable scorer and skilled playmaker.
His rookie season achievements included making the NBA All-Rookie Second Team and setting a franchise record as the fastest player to reach 500 career three-pointers in 237 games. In March 2025, he earned the Eastern Conference Player of the Month accolade along with two Player of the Week awards. White finished his Bulls career with a total of 6,945 points.
Significance of White’s Return for Chicago and Charlotte
White’s return visit to Chicago was a poignant reminder of his contributions to the Bulls and the mark he left as a fan favorite and accomplished player. For the Bulls, still struggling this season, the tribute underscored the connection between past talent and the team’s current efforts to regain momentum. For Charlotte, integrating White post-injury will be key as they continue their push in a competitive season.
The Bulls pay tribute to Coby White in his first game back in Chicago as part of Charlotte @ClutchPoints pic.twitter.com/5HLxIaEllp
— Zachary Draves (@DravesZachary) February 25, 2026
The Bulls pay tribute to Coby White in his first game back in Chicago as part of Charlotte @ClutchPoints pic.twitter.com/5HLxIaEllp
— Zachary Draves (@DravesZachary) February 25, 2026
Bulls in-game tribute to Coby White pic.twitter.com/MKCsv4IBZY
— M4VERICK (@M4VERICK_CARTER) February 25, 2026
