North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 college season after breaking his right thumb in a non-contact practice drill, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. Wilson underwent surgery on Thursday and is expected to be cleared for the NBA predraft process, keeping him in contention for the No. 1 overall pick in June.
Wilson, a 6-foot-10 freshman, has averaged 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over 24 games this season for the Tar Heels. He has shot 57.8% from the field, including 61.0% on two-pointers, while contributing defensively with 1.4 blocks and 1.5 steals per game.
Prior to the injury, Wilson had emerged as a top-seven prospect in the 2026 NBA Draft, drawing comparisons to Chris Bosh and Shareef Abdur-Rahim for his size, length, and defensive instincts. His combination of athleticism and versatility made him a potential impact player at both ends of the floor.
With Wilson sidelined, AJ Dybantsa of BYU and Darryn Peterson of Kansas have solidified their status as leading candidates for the top selections. Dybantsa, a 6-9 wing, is praised for his scoring ability and elite athleticism, while Peterson’s size and playmaking make him a top-tier guard prospect.
Cameron Boozer from Duke also remains a high-ranking option, offering polished offensive skills and defensive potential as a 6-9 forward. Other prospects in the top tier include Kingston Flemings, Jayden Quaintance, Koa Peat, Yaxel Lendeborg, Hannes Steinbach, Mikel Brown Jr., and Keaton Wagler, reflecting a deep and talented 2026 draft class.
Wilson’s injury could impact the draft lottery and team evaluations, but his season-ending setback is not expected to hinder his NBA draft stock, given his health recovery and overall upside.
