March 28, 2026, 3:20 p.m. ET
North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson announced Friday on Instagram that he plans to enter the 2026 NBA draft after a historic campaign with the Tar Heels.
Wilson was a consensus second-team All-American selection, averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.4 blocks while shooting 57.8% from the field. He set the freshman program records for scoring average and 20-point games (17).
The 6-foot-10 forward was limited to 24 games after suffering a broken left hand in a loss to Miami on Feb. 10. He then broke his right thumb while dunking during a practice on March 5, which ruled him out of the remainder of the season.
Wilson is projected to be a top-five pick in the 2026 NBA draft because of his overall offensive versatility and ability to defend multiple positions. He flourished with the ball in his hands in the open court and was a force in the paint with his athleticism and size.
The 19-year-old shot just 25.9% from 3-point range (7-of-27), which will certainly be a focus during his predraft workouts once he is cleared to begin training. Despite a low percentage from beyond the arc, Wilson proved to be effective from the mid-range and out of the post.
Wilson is a part of a highly touted draft class, with the likes of Darius Acuff Jr., Cameron Boozer, AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson projected to be high selections. The group is considered one of the most talented in recent memory.