Bulls guard Coby White excels on campaign trail out west

Coby White shines on the West Coast, making a strong case for NBA's Most Improved Player award with impressive stats and leadership.

The NBA campaign trail made its way to the West Coast last week, and it was a successful journey for Coby White in his bid for the 2023-24 Most Improved Player award. Despite a stumble against the Clippers in Los Angeles, White led the Bulls to victories over Sacramento, Utah, and Golden State.

DeMar DeRozan's stellar performance during the run was undeniable, but White played a crucial role as his sidekick, averaging impressive stats of 25.3 points, six assists, and five rebounds per game. What set White apart was his shooting efficiency, with a remarkable 56.1% from the field and 48.6% from three-point range. Additionally, he was the only starter with a positive plus/minus, finishing with a total of plus-13.

Zach LaVine, sidelined with a foot injury, commended White's outstanding performance and expressed his support for White to win the MIP award. White's availability and dedication were highlighted by his league-leading minutes per game, averaging an impressive 40.9 minutes during the West Coast games.

Despite White's strong case for the award, he faces tough competition from players like Tyrese Maxey and Alperen Sengun. Maxey has been a frontrunner in recent months, while Sengun's late-season surge has caught the attention of many. White may have the largest scoring jump among the candidates, but his competitors are also making significant impacts on their respective teams.

Beyond the numbers, White's evolution as a team leader has been remarkable. His willingness to speak up on the court, even to veterans, has been embraced by his teammates. Nikola Vucevic praised White's growth and emphasized the importance of young players seizing opportunities and performing well.

As the race for the Most Improved Player award heats up, White's all-around contributions, leadership qualities, and impressive statistical improvements make him a strong contender for the prestigious accolade. The West Coast games showcased White's talent and determination, solidifying his position as a standout player in the league.