A recent story from ESPN’s Marc J. Spears on Andscape spotlighted Chicago Bulls guard Coby White, who reflected on how basketball steered him away from gang life growing up in Goldsboro, N.C.
“I always say that basketball saved my life,” White told Spears. “I remember while growing up the people I was hanging around with when I got to about 14, 13 started getting involved with gangs and stuff like that."
White unveiled that his father, Donald, a former North Carolina Central guard, first introduced basketball to his life. That foundation eventually carried White through high school stardom and into the NBA.
White, now 25, has turned that pivotal choice into a budding NBA career and an opportunity to shape lives beyond the court. Recently, he re-launched the Coby White Family Foundation (CWFF), dedicated to supporting Black and brown youth with mental health resources, equitable opportunities, and creative outlets. Its first charity event in Chapel Hill raised enough to fund two $10,000 scholarships and spotlighted Black and brown artists from across the country.
“I feel like I can continue to impact the youth. It starts with showing them what the rights and the wrongs are and that violence ain’t ever the answer. There’s more to life than gang violence, more to life than being in a gang, more to life than what they have seen so far,” White said.
The Bulls guard is also entering a crucial stage of his career. After averaging a career-high 20.5 points last season, White is eyeing his first All-Star berth and embracing a larger leadership role following Zach LaVine’s trade. Chicago’s front office, including Arturas Karnisovas and coach Billy Donovan, even attended his foundation event, a gesture White said made him “feel wanted” ahead of his 2026 free agency.
As he builds toward stardom, White is equally focused on ensuring today’s youth avoid the same dangers he once faced.
Read More Chicago Bulls Coverage
MORE: Could Josh Giddey Take a Leap In 2025-26
MORE: Who Fills the Wing Void for Chicago Bulls in 2025-26 Season
MORE: Dalen Terry Has a Big Season Ahead For the Bulls