Caleb Wilson bids good-bye to North Carolina, hello to NBA

Field Level Media|published: Wed 15th April, 14:48 2026

Feb 21, 2026; Syracuse, New York, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Caleb Wilson (8) shoots prior to the game against the Syracuse Orange at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-Imagn Images

It turns out Caleb Wilson's final game with North Carolina occurred on Feb. 10.

The freshman star formally became a one-and-done player by declaring for the NBA draft this week. He's a likely top-five draft pick.

"I am grateful for the opportunity I had to represent North Carolina," Wilson said in a video. "Wearing No. 8, 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."

The 6-foot-10 Wilson was a second-team All-American and averaged 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds in 24 games. He missed the last nine game games due to hand and thumb injuries.

He fractured his left hand against Miami on Feb. 10. When he was close to returning from that ailment, Wilson broke his right thumb while dunking in practice on March 5 and underwent surgery.

"This past year has been the most fun year of my life, although it has been filled with a lot of growth and adversity," Wilson said in his announcement. "I will always cherish this university and the people that make this place what it is."

His decision to become a pro comes after North Carolina fired coach Hubert Davis and hired former NBA head coach Michael Malone.

The Tar Heels lost 82-78 in overtime to VCU in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

--Field Level Media

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