Coby White made an emotional return to the United Center, this time as a member of the Charlotte Hornets. His new team scored a big win over the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday, 131-99.
White was traded to Charlotte before the deadline in a deal that brought Collin Sexton and some second-round picks to Chicago. Due to a calf injury, White was eased into his first game with the Hornets. He scored 10 points on 4-for-9 shooting.
After Charlotte's impressive win against Chicago, White did not hesitate to meet with his old teammates.
Coby White reunites with some of his former Bulls teammates (who remain). The Hornets handed the Bulls their 10th straight loss, and Chicago is still winless after the deadline. His 99 points tonight tied for his third-fewest points of the season. pic.twitter.com/jijnN7ZybX
- Joel Lorenzi (@JoelXLorenzi) 25 February 2026
Additionally, the former Bulls guard received a warm welcome on the court. During a first quarter timeout, the team played a tribute video for Coby White on the big screen. The montage traces his journey from being drafted out of North Carolina in 2019 to becoming one of the most beloved players among Chicago fans.
Reflecting on the warm reception he received from the crowd, White expressed how much the moment meant to him.
"You really don't know how much of an impact you have on people. And what an impact people have on me. I get a lot of applause and whatever, but so many people are here tonight, wearing my jersey, calling my name. For me, it's just trying to be in the moment. And just trying to stay grounded. It's very humbling to find out how many people you impact through this beautiful game that we play," the 26-year-old told CHSN. Said through.
The Bulls tried to snap a nine-game losing streak on Tuesday, but the Hornets pushed it to 10. Chicago fell to 24-35 and remains winless this month, while Charlotte improved to 28-31 with seven wins in its last 10 contests.
Before the game, White talked about the direction of Chicago's season and his understanding of the team's decision to trade him.
"The way the season was going, we weren't getting enough wins in a row," White told the media. "Like I said from the beginning, I support whatever they think is best for the team. This organization believed in me. They gave me the chance and the opportunity to live out my dreams. So, I just want to see the organization succeed."
Only time will tell how the Bulls' decision to trade White will turn out. The move gives Chicago an opportunity to reshape the roster, but it remains to be seen if it will lead to better results in the long run.
Meanwhile, the Hornets will aim to keep their momentum going with Coby White back in the lineup after returning from injury. Charlotte will take on the Indiana Pacers in their next game on Thursday.
