With the 2026 NBA Draft cycle getting hot, early projections are somewhat all over the place, but they’re always fun to look at for fans of big programs like UNC. For North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson, he continues to rise as one of the top four players in the class, and rightfully so, as he’s done a lot of good on both sides of the basketball in his early college career.
Night after night, he changes games with his effort, athleticism, and energy. He’s also a plus scorer and has shown the ability to make plays for himself and teammates. Outside of a consistent jump shot, Wilson has a lot figured out on both sides of the ball. Only 19 years old, it’s not crazy to suggest that he can eventually do what’s needed to improve his jumper.
His play has caught the attention of everyone, including SB Nation’s Ricky O’Donnell, who recently projected Wilson to be selected No. 4 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards.
“Wilson is an explosive 6’10 forward with a non-stop motor who makes some jaw-dropping plays above the rim on both ends of the floor. Wilson can be a clunky fit in a halfcourt offense as a total non-shooter right now (5-of-20 from three), but he still makes an impact with his transition scoring, offensive rebounding, and impressive passing.
“He has some real shot-making touch from mid-range, and shows some awesome pivot moves to score around the basket. The real signature skill for Wilson’s offense is his ability to dunk absolutely everything, with 60 dunks in his first 19 college games. He can do a little bit of everything defensively: switch onto the ball, provide secondary rim protection as a roamer, end possessions with a rebound, and get out into the passing lanes with his length. Wilson plays so hard on every possession and has such good physical tools that it’s hard to see him failing even if the jumper never comes around. He should be an excellent role player at minimum with the potential to be more,” he wrote.
While the shooting remains a work in progress, his ability to impact games without the ball separates him from many prospects. We’ve seen many college guys who have an average to below-average jumper eventually figure it out in the NBA, especially at his size.
For Washington, the fit makes a lot of sense. The Wizards need a star, and Wilson has a chance to be one.