Hornets PG Coby White Grateful for Former UNC Coach Roy Williams' Support

White thanks Williams for attending his first home game with the Hornets and checking in on him throughout his career

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Coby White, the new point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, was surprised and grateful to see his former college coach Roy Williams sitting courtside at his first home game with the team. White, who played for Williams at the University of North Carolina, said Williams has been checking in on him throughout his career and that their relationship is "bigger than basketball."

Why it matters

The relationship between White and Williams highlights the lasting impact a college coach can have on a player, even years after they've left the program. Williams' continued support for White shows the value of mentorship and how it can positively influence a player's professional career.

The details

White said Williams called him the night before the game to say he was coming, though he didn't know Williams would be sitting courtside. White, who is from Goldsboro, North Carolina, played seven seasons with the Chicago Bulls before being traded to the Hornets. In his Hornets home debut, White scored 20 points, grabbed 3 rebounds and dished 1 assist in a 109-93 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.

  • White made his Hornets debut on February 24, 2026.
  • White's first home game with the Hornets was on February 28, 2026.

The players

Coby White

A 26-year-old point guard for the Charlotte Hornets who played seven seasons with the Chicago Bulls before being traded to his home state team.

Roy Williams

The former head coach of the University of North Carolina men's basketball team, where Coby White played for four years.

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What they’re saying

“He called me last night to tell me he was coming through. He didn't tell me he was going to be court-side, though. It was good to see him. I got to see him over the All-Star break, too. Through this whole process, when I got traded, he's been checking in on me every step of the way. Obviously, he's a legendary coach, but I've been gone six or seven years. For him to still reach out, I would say our relationship is bigger than basketball. He's helped me throughout some tough times in my life and continues to help me.”

— Coby White, Charlotte Hornets Guard (The Charlotte Observer)

What’s next

White will look to continue his strong play as the Hornets push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

The relationship between Coby White and Roy Williams demonstrates the lasting impact a college coach can have on a player, even years after they've left the program. Williams' continued support and mentorship for White shows the value of building meaningful connections that go beyond just basketball.