Chicago Bulls guard Coby White has informed the team multiple times that he will not be taking a contract extension and intends to explore unrestricted free agency next summer, according to Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times. The 25-year-old is entering the final year of his three-year, $36 million deal.
White enjoyed a breakout 2024–25 campaign, averaging 20.4 points and 4.5 assists over 79 games. Despite his personal success, the Bulls finished 39–43 and missed the playoffs after falling in the play-in tournament.
League chatter suggests White will pursue a contract exceeding $30 million per season, potentially placing him among the NBA’s highest-paid guards. This figure is reportedly higher than the average annual value given to players like Josh Giddey.
Chicago’s salary cap constraints make a high-value extension difficult. Spotrac’s Keith Smith reported that one team executive acknowledged the challenge, noting the organization “probably can’t extend him, because the rules don’t allow for us to pay him enough,” but still expressed a desire for White to remain a Bull long-term.
Adding further complexity, Ayo Dosunmu is also headed for unrestricted free agency next summer. Dosunmu averaged 12.3 points and 4.5 assists last season while completing a three-year, $21 million contract.
White is part of a crowded Bulls backcourt, making the timing of his next contract crucial for both the player and the organization. His choice to wait until free agency signals a clear focus on securing a maximum-value deal.
