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UNC Basketball Commit Now Projected to Become NBA Lottery Pick

The UNC basketball program is unlikely to enjoy the five-star services of Caleb Wilson for more than one season.
Matt Giles|
UNC basketball head coach Hubert Davis
UNC basketball head coach Hubert Davis | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

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North Carolina Tar Heels

Holy Innocents Episcopal School (Ga.) senior and headline UNC basketball pledge Caleb Wilson stacks up at No. 6 overall, No. 3 among power forwards, and No. 1 in Georgia on the 247Sports 2025 Composite. So, it's no surprise the 6-foot-9, 205-pound five-star is a projected one-and-done.

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In fact, ESPN's debut 2026 mock draft this week forecasts Wilson to come off the board No. 8 overall to the San Antonio Spurs roughly 16 months from now. The outlet's premier NBA Draft insider, Jonathan Givony, advertised his top 10 on social media:

UNC basketball hasn't produced a top-10 draft pick since Coby White heard his name No. 7 overall in 2019 following his sensational one-and-done campaign with the Tar Heels.

Caleb Wilson, who announced his commitment to fourth-year Tar Heel head coach Hubert Davis and his staff just over a month ago and has since become a 2025 McDonald's All American selection, is the highest-ranked member of the three-deep recruiting class heading to Chapel Hill next season.

The other UNC prizes, both early signees, are Gonzaga College High School (D.C.) four-star guard Derek Dixon and Davidson Day School (N.C.) four-star guard Isaiah Denis.

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Stay tuned to North Carolina Tar Heels On SI for more UNC basketball recruiting news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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