Coby White is ready to take on more responsibility for the Bulls

Coby White is stepping up to the plate and assuming a leadership role on the Bulls.

Coby White had a solid preseason debut for the Chicago Bulls, tallying 14 points, six rebounds, six assists, and two steals. But while those numbers are impressive, as he tries to win the role of starting point guard, what’s more impressive is the leadership that he’s been showing so far.

Growing into the role

The 23-year-old admits it took him some time to find his place and voice on a team loaded with veterans during his rookie season. White said it was last season that he felt more confident lending his voice to the team. Whether it was in the huddle, on the floor, or in the locker room, White let his voice be heard.

“Being a young guy, you fall into this thing of, ‘I’m young.’ Especially on a team full of guys are older who have won, been in the playoffs a bunch of times. AC [Alex Caruso] has been a champion. You get that mindset of, ‘They have more experience than me. They know more than me. My opinion doesn’t matter,’” White said.

“I didn’t know how much guys respected my opinion, and my connection with every guy on the team, until last year. I’m continuing to grow into it. And it feels natural for me at this point.”

Gotten better

Bulls coach Billy Donovan has seen White’s game and confidence grow by leaps and bounds last season, and he’s pleased to see that the progression continues this season.

“I’m really happy with him,” Donovan said. “He always looks at himself internally with how he can get better.”

Verbalizing what fans, teammates, and pundits saw last season, White has improved nearly every aspect of his game. Whether it’s defense, shot selection, or playmaking, White is primed for a breakout season.

“I think every aspect of his game, he’s gotten better. I think he’s gotten a lot more cerebral and has a better understanding than when he was a rookie, which is normal. And I think he has found his voice. He has no problem saying something when guys aren’t doing something the right way,” Donovan said.

“My first year here, he was probably trying to figure things out and didn’t have a lot to say. Winning is important to him. Leading is important to him. If he continues to flourish in those areas, it will serve him and our team well.”