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Billy Donovan believes Coby White can be an All-Star in the NBA: "I think he's got that kind of ability"

Donovan has a lot of faith in Coby White.

Stephen Beslic

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Being an All-Star in the NBA is the ultimate badge of honor for any basketball player. It signifies individual talent and a high level of respect and recognition from peers, coaches, and fans. So when Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan says that he believes young guard Coby White has the potential to be an All-Star in the future, it's worth taking note.

All-Star ability

The 23-year-old guard has turned heads in the last month and a half, showcasing an explosive scoring ability and a crafty playmaking ability that helped the Bulls turn their season around after a 5-14 start. White’s performances have not gone unnoticed, especially by Donovan, who believes the former Tar Heel is worthy of All-Star consideration.

“I think Coby going forward, if he can continue to stay on this path, he’ll be a guy that will be considered for an All-Star Game. I think he’s got that kind of ability,” Donovan said.

It was in December that White made everyone take note of him. With Zach LaVine sidelined for an extended period because of a foot issue, White grabbed the wheel and steered the Bulls back into relevance, averaging 22.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.7 assists while shooting 40.2 percent from long distance.

Leadership skills

If anyone needed more proof of White’s ascendance this season, they saw plenty of it on Wednesday as White scorched the Houston Rockets for 30 points, including six three-pointers and eight assists. He also stuck a dagger in the Rockets’ hearts, draining a trifecta that doomed Houston’s chances in overtime.

More than the scoring ability and playmaking skills, Donovan took note of White’s leadership skills.

“I think the other thing that’s come out is his leadership. He’s got an ability to lead. And I would consider him still moving into his prime,” Donovan added.

"Bro, just go hoop. Do your thing" - Coby White on what he told Zach LaVine upon his return

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Stephen Beslic
STEPHEN BESLIC

Stephen Beslic is a writer on Sports Illustrated's FanNation Network. Stephen played basketball from the age of 10 and graduated from Faculty of Economic and Business in Zagreb, Croatia, majoring in Marketing.

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