All Tar Heels

UNC Basketball Newcomer Appears as Projected One-And-Done Lottery Pick

The 2025-26 UNC basketball roster features a potential NBA star in Caleb Wilson.
Matt Giles|
UNC basketball signee Caleb Wilson
UNC basketball signee Caleb Wilson | Pamela Smith-Imagn Images

In this story:

North Carolina Tar Heels

The UNC basketball program hasn't produced an NBA Draft lottery pick since Coby White and Cam Johnson came off the board at No. 7 and No. 11 overall, respectively, back in 2019. Perhaps five-star freshman forward Caleb Wilson will end that peculiar drought for the blueblood Tar Heels.

ALSO READ: Five-Star Prep LJ Smith Lands on Tar Heel Wishlist

On Friday, the morning after the 2025 NBA Draft concluded, ESPN's Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo released their way-too-early mock draft for next year. They forecast Wilson, who will turn 19 in a couple of weeks, to hear his name at No. 8 overall to the Atlanta Hawks.

"At 6-foot-9, Wilson looks the part with an outstanding frame, length and developing two-way versatility that could be harnessed into a very intriguing package long term," Givony wrote about the potential one-and-done UNC basketball centerpiece. "He can push off the defensive glass and pass on the move.

"Wilson's intensity level and outside shooting need work, but he has attributes you can't teach and is loaded with long-term upside."

Caleb Wilson finished No. 5 overall, No. 3 among power forwards, and No. 1 in Georgia on the 247Sports 2025 Composite.

He's the Tar Heels' only projected 2026 first-rounder in the eyes of ESPN.

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

Published
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.

Share on XFollow MattGilesBD
Home/Basketball