Caleb Wilson officially makes decision on UNC basketball future
Now halfway through April, college basketball programs are starting to see their 2026-27 rosters take shape, largely through the transfer portal.
Teams are also watching players declare for the NBA draft. Tar Heel Nation hoped Caleb Wilson would return for Year 2, especially after two injuries cut his freshman season short, but UNC's freshman superstar announced his decision on Monday.
In a heartfelt message posted to social media, Wilson declared for the NBA draft.
“What’s up Tar Heel Nation? It’s Caleb here," Wilson said. "This past year has best the most fun year of my life. Although it has been filled with a lot of growth and adversity, I will always cherish this univerrsity and the people that make this place what it is. I’m grateful for the opportunity I had to represent North Carolina. Wearing number eight, running out of that historic tunnel every day for practice and games. And I’m happy to say every day, I gave it my all. Lastly, I would like to thank my family, coaches, fans and my support system and especially my head coach, the Godfather of Chapel Hill Hoots and my Academic Advisor, Jean, who always checked on me in my toughest times. WIth that being said, I will declare for the 2026 NBA Draft. Go Heels.”
Wilson was the crown jewel of North Carolina's 2025 recruiting class , which included guards Isaiah Denis and Derek Dixon. Wilson carried high expectations into Chapel Hill, and he thoroughly exceeded them. He quickly became a household name in college basketball.
Wilson averaged 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds per game during his lone season as a Tar Heel, breaking Tyler Hansbrough's program record for most 20-point games by a freshman. When injury forced Wilson off the court, he was UNC's greatest cheerleader.
Whichever NBA team lands Wilson this summer is getting a phenomenal young man and generational basketball talent.
Thank you for a great year in Chapel Hill, Caleb!
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC superstar Caleb Wilson officially declares for 2026 NBA Draft
