Charlotte Hornets veteran Miles Bridges has expressed enthusiasm over the addition of guard Coby White, noting a noticeable shift in the team’s energy since the trade deadline deal with the Chicago Bulls. White debuted against his former team, contributing 10 points, four assists, three rebounds, and one steal, helping the Hornets secure a dominant 131-99 victory.
Impact of Coby White on the Hornets’ Immediate Performance
Bridges highlighted the fresh dynamic White brings as a reliable scoring option off the bench. He emphasized White’s ability to consistently put up points, though currently serving in the role of sixth man, which fits the team’s needs well. Playing in his hometown adds to White’s comfort, and Bridges noted the team’s effort to make him feel welcomed.
Just a dynamic veteran guard off the bench. He’s doing a great job. He can score 20-30 [points] each night if he wanted to, but just to have him as a sixth man, that’s great for us,
Bridges said.
He’s playing in his hometown. So, it feels extra good for him and should be comfortable. We’re trying to make him comfortable here on his team, and we’re happy to have him.
Changing Atmosphere and Fan Support Boosting the Hornets
Bridges remarked on a positive shift in fan involvement this season, contrasting it with previous years when home games saw less enthusiastic crowds. The veteran noted that more fans are now attending games and showing their support, helping boost the team’s morale, especially during road games where opposing fans were previously louder.
It’s a different vibe,
Bridges remarked.
We’ll go to away games, their team’s [crowd] be loud, cheering them on, and we didn’t have the same at home. Some people showed up. Now, it’s like everybody’s showing up, showing us love. But shoutout to the fans that’s been down with us before, and shoutout to the fans now.
Coby White Reflects on Facing Former Bulls Team
Coby White shared his feelings after playing against the Chicago Bulls for the first time since being traded to the Hornets. Having spent his entire NBA career with Chicago until the recent move, White described the emotional atmosphere during his return to his former home arena.
You don’t really know the impact you have on people. And the impact people have on me. I got the ovation and whatever, but so many people being here tonight, wearing my jersey, calling my name,
White recalled.
For me, it’s just trying to be in the moment. And just try to stay grounded. It’s very humbling to find out how many people you impact through this beautiful game that we play.
Hornets’ Momentum and Upcoming Challenges
The Hornets are currently riding a four-game winning streak, energized by new team chemistry and fan support. The next test comes on Tuesday, when Charlotte hosts the Dallas Mavericks, offering another opportunity for Coby White to further integrate into the squad and demonstrate his impact.
This evolving dynamic, highlighted by Bridges’ praise and White’s heartfelt reflections, signals a hopeful period for the Hornets as they aim to maintain their improved performance and deepen community connections amidst a tense and highly competitive NBA season.
Asked Miles Bridges about the atmosphere surrounding #Hornets basketball in the city. He said "it's a different vibe."
He also gave praise to Coby White with how he's fitting in: pic.twitter.com/yvSHsafVJJ
— Rod Boone (@rodboone) February 28, 2026
"It's very humbling to find out how many people you impact through this beautiful game that we play."
Coby White on the support he felt in his return to Chicago tonight pic.twitter.com/WqZPPQyYXi
— Bulls on CHSN (@CHSN_Bulls) February 25, 2026
