The bond that UNC players have with the program is something that never goes away. Just ask former standout Coby White about that and his relationship with the one and only Roy Williams. The two were close in Chapel Hill and the friendship remains strong.
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White reminded us all of that last week, as he made his official debut with the Charlotte Hornets. It was a homecoming for White, as he was surely reminded of his time with the Heels not too far away. For that Charlotte debut, Roy Williams made the commute over and checked in on his former star. Think that meant a lot to White and his family? You better believe it:
Coby White on his former coach Roy Williams being in attendance:
— SleeperHornets (@SleeperHornets) February 28, 2026
“He called me last night, told me he was coming through… obviously a legendary coach but I’ve been gone 6-7 years, for him to still reach out, our relationship is bigger than basketball. He’s helped me through a… pic.twitter.com/aQ4locO2IL
Coby White opened up on his strong relationship with Roy Williams
This was a last-minute call, as White revealed that Williams called him the night before the Charlotte game on Saturday to let his former player know he wasn't going to miss him in action. Things were only made better with Williams getting a courtside seat.
In the 109-93 win for the Hornets, White was fantastic, scoring 20 points on 5-of-13 shooting. White originally joined the Chicago Bulls in 2019, spending the last 6.5 seasons with the Bulls. He was traded to Charlotte ahead of the deadline, which of course wasn't easy for him.
White added that while this process (of being traded) has been difficult, Williams has been checking in on him and having his back. This just goes to show, as White mentioned, that Williams' care for his players was never going to end once they left UNC.
Nope, in this case, the two have a special bond and it's something that Williams also shares with many others. The start to White's NBA career hasn't quite gone according to plan, but he's now ready to take full advantage of his fresh start with the Hornets. It must also help him knowing that Williams, a coach and friend, is nearby if he needs any help or advice moving forward.