Former UNC Star Coby White Traded to Charlotte Hornets

White returns to his home state to help the Hornets make a late-season playoff push.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 6:07pm

In a surprise trade deadline move, the Chicago Bulls traded veteran guard Coby White to the Charlotte Hornets. White, a former one-and-done star at the University of North Carolina, will now play in his home state once again after being drafted by the Bulls in 2019.

Why it matters

The Hornets are making a strong late-season push for the playoffs, having gone 11-6 in January after a slow start. White's addition could provide a boost as the team seeks its first postseason berth in 10 years.

The details

White was a highly touted high school recruit who starred at UNC in the 2018-19 season. He has been a solid starter for the Bulls, averaging around 19 points and 5 assists per game. The Bulls traded White and veteran guard Mike Conley Jr. to the Hornets for guard Collin Sexton, Ousmane Dieng, and three second-round picks.

  • The trade was completed at the NBA trade deadline on February 5, 2026.
  • White played one season at UNC during the 2018-19 campaign.

The players

Coby White

A former one-and-done star at the University of North Carolina who was drafted 7th overall by the Chicago Bulls in 2019.

Charlotte Hornets

An NBA team based in Charlotte, North Carolina that is making a late-season push for the playoffs.

Chicago Bulls

An NBA team that traded Coby White and Mike Conley Jr. to the Hornets at the 2026 trade deadline.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Coby White was a dominant freshman for the Tar Heels. He was known for incredible speed in transition and a smooth step-back jumper.”

— Thomas Hicks, Journalist

What’s next

The Hornets will look to integrate White into their lineup as they make a final push for the playoffs, which would be their first postseason appearance in 10 years.

The takeaway

This trade represents a homecoming for Coby White, who returns to his home state of North Carolina to join the Hornets and help the team end its lengthy playoff drought.