All Tar Heels

UNC Basketball Pro Does Best MJ Impression in Bulls Win

UNC basketball product Coby White keeps on taking his repertoire to new heights.
Photo credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

One of the most replayed highlights in NBA history is the skying hand-switch layup that Chicago Bulls legend and UNC basketball champ Michael Jordan displayed against the Los Angeles Lakers during a Game 2 matchup in June 1991 on the way to seizing his first of six NBA Finals MVP trophies.

Former Tar Heel guard Coby White, now in his fifth season with the Chicago Bulls since getting drafted No. 7 overall following his sensational 2018-19 freshman campaign in Chapel Hill, didn't quite replicate Jordan's signature moment (one of many) on Thursday night.

His flight path wasn't at the same level. Then again, nobody's ever has been, as Jordan had the ball well above the rim in his right hand before handing it off to his left for the underhanded flip off the glass:

Nevertheless, White's showman-like acrobatic hand switch and finish in the Bulls' 118-110 road win over the Memphis Grizzlies present a highlight-worthy aerial act in its own right.

Have a look at the Coby White bucket, extending Chicago's lead to 99-95 with less than five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter:

The electrifying 23-year-old finished the contest with 20 points, six rebounds, and eight assists, shooting 6-for-12 from the field, 2-for-3 from downtown, and 6-for-6 at the line.

Through 52 Bulls games this season — yes, White has played and started in all of them — the Goldsboro, N.C., native and UNC basketball treasure is posting career-high averages with his 19.4 points, 4.7 boards, and 5.2 dimes per outing.

Chicago (25-27) next heads farther south to face the Orlando Magic (28-24), including their former one-and-done Tar Heel in reserve guard Cole Anthony, at 7 p.m. ET Saturday.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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