Chicago Bulls’ Coby White on an Historic Rookie Run

Chicago Bulls rookie Coby White was inconsistent to start his NBA career. White admitted back in early January he had hit the so-called “rookie wall,” and he went into the All-Star break not scoring more than 14 points in a game since notching 23 against the Indiana Pacers on Jan. 10.

Immediately out of the break, the rookie has since gone bonkers, notching a short-lived career-high 33 points. Then breaking the record in the game against thunder with a 35 point performance. Against the Oklahoma City Thunder, he became the first rookie in league history to score 30-plus points in three consecutive games while coming off the bench.

White also became the first rookie in NBA history to make five or more 3-pointers in three consecutive games. He also joined Michael Jordan as the only Bulls rookies with three straight 30-point games. He has credited his trademark bouncy hair for his hot scoring streak. 

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Should Coby White Start?

White is averaging 11.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 24.7 minutes of action per game. He has yet to start for Chicago, but considering the promise he has shown, there are certainly some who think he’s worthy of a spot in the first five.

White has certainly been playing well in a reserve role. If he continues to produce at the level that he has over the past few games, the calls for White to start will become louder. After the loss to the Thunder, Boylen reiterated that White will continue to come off the bench.

As long as White keeps playing big minutes, it’s not a huge deal if he continues coming off the bench. To his credit, the rookie doesn’t care if he starts as long as he finishes the game.

The Bulls are hoping White finishes this season strong and begins to cement himself as a true cornerstone of their rebuild.