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Coby White credits his teammate for helping him become more of a leader: "Zach has seen me grow up in the NBA"
Coby White and Zach LaVine are the most tenured players on this Chicago Bulls lineup, so, unsurprisingly, the two have developed a special bond that has helped the former become a better leader and basketball player.
“Zach has seen me grow up in the NBA. He’s been here since I got drafted. Me and him, our relationship goes beyond basketball. I’m grateful for that relationship,” White said in an interview with NBC Sports Chicago. “He has always believed in me and pushed me and given me confidence."
Confidence boost
Picked seventh overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, the former Tar Heel has had his fair share of ups and downs—from coming off the bench in his rookie season to starting but playing inconsistent basketball—during his first two years in the league. White, however, remained confident that he could make a significant impact for the Bulls.
Through it all, White said LaVine was always in his ear, giving him confidence when his shot's not falling and sage advice to help him deal with life in the NBA, both on and off the floor.
“He sensed, since we’ve been here the longest, when I’m down or when I’m up. When things were tough for me, he would always come to me and say little stuff like, ‘Keep your head, bro. You’re good. Remember how talented you are and what got you here.’ He’s always been like a big brother to me and someone, honestly, that I look up to. Not only on the basketball court but how he lives his life---how he takes care of his son. He’s someone I can go to in a time of need,” White added.
See the progress
After a rough first few seasons, things began turning around for White last season. Though he played fewer minutes and scored fewer points, he improved his overall game. This season, White seems primed to take on a bigger role in the team following the departure of starting guard Patrick Beverley, and LaVine is all for it.
“Hard work doesn’t fail. So you’re gonna see the progress,” LaVine said. “I think he’s just really confident right now. He’s playing well. He’s moving and acting like this is what I want to do. He’s confident in that role. And we’re supporting him.”
