The last time public eyes were focused on first-round pick Coby White in a competitive environment, the reviews were mixed.
White flashed his much-ballyhooed raw speed, zipping up and down the court throughout Summer League, but he shot only 3-for-30 from three-point range and struggled with his decision-making.
He insisted to the media that it would all get better.
By all accounts, there has been improvement during voluntary workouts in September and the first week of training camp.
But — and there’s always a but when the Bulls hype up their players — what matters is how he looks against other NBA teams.
That process starts Monday, when the Bulls host the Bucks in their preseason -opener.
Until then, you have to take the word of the organization on where he stands.
“He’s been really good [the first week],’’ coach Jim Boylen said. “What I’ve been impressed with is his maturity level on the floor and how quickly he can kind of pick up things and grow.
“He’s not scared, which I love. He’s more physical than I thought this early. He’s a big body. He can play on the ball and off the ball. He shot the ball very well in camp. He puts a shoulder on you, you feel it. His physicality is what we hoped it would be; I didn’t know if it would come this fast. We’re thankful for him.’’
Even center Wendell Carter Jr. praised White, which isn’t easy for a Duke player, especially when it comes to a North Carolina alum.
“I love him, keeps us running,’’ Carter said. “He’s quick, gets it out fast, very unselfish and is a very good shooter. He makes the right plays, plays very good defense. Other than him going to UNC, I like him a lot.’’
That’s all well and good, but with Kris Dunn and Tomas Satoransky battling it out for the starting point-guard spot and Zach LaVine cemented in as the two guard, when will White get his chance to zip up and down the court?
During the five-game preseason schedule, he’ll get plenty of opportunities.
White will see time at the point but also at shooting guard because of his ability to shoot and attack the rim.
Boylen already said that they would look at different lineups — starting and off the bench — so don’t be surprised if White gets a starting nod to work with the first unit.
When the games start to matter on Oct. 23, however, that’s when finding minutes for White will get interesting.
“We’ve added ballers to this team,’’ Boylen said. “Coby White, whether he’s a one, he’s a two, he’s a baller. . . . That’s what this roster is. We’ve got to do a good job using those guys and give them space and freedom to use what they have.’’
Sounds good to White. He has no problem waiting for his turn. And when it comes, he’ll let it rip.
“The main thing that fits me is [Boylen] wants to run,’’ White said. “The faster I get down the court, the faster you get into your offensive possession. Whether I got the ball in my hands or not, if you run and get in transition, it creates more scoring opportunities for you.
“I love to run.’’
