Coby White Bio
Alec Jacoby “Coby” White (born February 16, 2000) is an American professional basketball player for the Chicago Bulls of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the North Carolina Tar Heels. White was a top high school player in North Carolina, finishing his career as the top prep scorer in state history. After being selected by the Bulls in the first round of the 2019 NBA draft with the seventh overall pick, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2020. In 2024, White finished second in the NBA Most Improved Player award behind Tyrese Maxey.
Early Life and Background
Coby White was born in Goldsboro, North Carolina. He attended Greenfield School in Wilson, North Carolina, where he excelled in basketball. During his high school career, he scored a remarkable 3,573 points, becoming the all-time leading scorer in North Carolina high school basketball history. This achievement was previously held by JamesOn Curry. White was recognized for his talent, being named the North Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year in both his junior and senior seasons. In 2018, he was awarded the title of North Carolina Mr. Basketball, solidifying his status as the state’s top high school player.
Path to Basketball
After an impressive high school career, Coby White signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the University of North Carolina. He made his college debut on November 6, 2018, against Wofford, where he contributed eight points and three assists. White’s standout performance came on February 26, 2019, when he scored a career-high 34 points against Syracuse. He also broke a North Carolina freshman record by hitting 82 three-pointers during his college season. After just one season at North Carolina, where he earned All-ACC Second Team honors, White declared for the NBA draft in April 2019.
Coby White Career
Early Career (2019–2020)
Coby White was drafted by the Chicago Bulls with the seventh overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft. This made him the first player from North Carolina to be drafted in the first round by the Bulls since Michael Jordan in 1984. White made his NBA debut on October 23, 2019, scoring 17 points in a game against the Charlotte Hornets. He quickly made a name for himself, setting a franchise record by hitting seven three-pointers in a single quarter against the New York Knicks on November 12, 2019. By the end of his rookie season, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
Breakthrough (2021–2024)
Coby White’s breakthrough came during the 2020-2021 season when he consistently showcased his scoring ability. On February 10, 2021, he scored 30 points and made eight three-pointers in a game against the New Orleans Pelicans, setting a franchise record. His performance continued to improve, and in 2024, he scored a career-high 42 points in a play-in tournament game against the Atlanta Hawks. This performance highlighted his growth as a player and his potential for future success.
Notable Works and Milestones
Coby White’s notable achievements include being named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2020 and finishing second in the NBA Most Improved Player award in 2024. He has also set multiple franchise records for the Chicago Bulls, including being the fastest player to reach 500 career three-point baskets.
Coby White Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Coby White has received several nominations, including the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2020 and finishing second for the NBA Most Improved Player award in 2024.
Coby White Awards Won
Coby White has achieved significant recognition in his career, including being named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2020.
Coby White Family
Coby White’s father, Donald White, played college basketball at North Carolina Central and worked as a factory worker until his death in 2017 due to liver cancer. His mother works as a claims manager for an insurance company. Coby has a sister and an older brother, Will, who played basketball and is currently an assistant coach at Mars Hill University.
Personal Life
Coby White has a personal connection with NBA player Chris Paul, having played for Paul’s Amateur Athletic Union program, Team CP3. He continues to maintain a close relationship with his family as he navigates his professional basketball career.
