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UNC’s Caleb Wilson Keeps NBA Decision Open After Season-Ending Thumb Injury

The All-American forward is projected as a top-five NBA pick, raising the likelihood he departs Chapel Hill.

Overview

  • Wilson told reporters he has not decided whether to enter the 2026 NBA Draft or return to North Carolina.
  • The freshman will miss the ACC and NCAA tournaments after breaking his right thumb in early March, following a left-hand fracture in February.
  • He averaged 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists on 57.8% shooting, earning AP Second Team All-American honors.
  • UNC says Wilson’s No. 8 jersey will be honored in the Dean E. Smith Center rafters based on his freshman accolades.
  • Recent mock drafts project Wilson as a lottery pick, including a USA TODAY forecast placing him No. 4 to the Brooklyn Nets.