The rich just got richer in Chapel Hill. On Thursday, Caleb Wilson, the No. 6 overall prospect in the ESPN 100 for the class of 2025, announced his commitment to the North Carolina Tar Heels. The 6-foot-9 power forward chose UNC over fellow blue blood Kentucky after a hotly contested recruitment.
Hubert Davis Lands His First 5-Star
For Tar Heels head coach Hubert Davis, Wilson represents his first five-star commitment since taking over for Roy Williams in 2021. While Davis had assembled a solid 2025 class prior to this week with four-star guards Derek Dixon and Isaiah Denis, landing an elite prospect like Wilson vaults Carolina’s group into the top tier nationally.
Wilson cited his relationship with Davis and UNC’s winning culture as key factors in his decision:
“I love the passion and energy of coach Hubert Davis,” Wilson told ESPN. “I know he will push me to be my best and love me at the same time. He is a truth teller and that’s what I want. I plan to help UNC win and win big.”
Why Wilson Chose the Heels
Beyond his bond with the coaching staff, Wilson was drawn to North Carolina’s tradition of excellence and player development. The chance to don the same uniform as Tar Heel legends like Michael Jordan, James Worthy, and Antawn Jamison held major appeal.
UNC’s up-tempo style also played to Wilson’s strengths as an explosive athlete who thrives in transition. His length, quickness, and versatility make him an ideal fit in Carolina’s high-octane offense and aggressive defense.
What Wilson Brings to the Table
Wilson has all the tools to be a dominant force at the college level and a future NBA lottery pick. At 6’9″ with a 7’1″ wingspan, he has prototypical size for a modern power forward. But it’s his unique blend of skills that sets him apart.
Despite his height, Wilson is comfortable handling the ball on the perimeter and creating offense for himself and others. He spent the past summer running point for his AAU squad at times, showcasing improved vision and decision-making.
Defensively, Wilson’s quick-twitch athleticism allows him to guard multiple positions and protect the rim. He projects as the type of switchable, versatile stopper that every coach covets in today’s positionless game.
Scouting Report and Player Comparisons
ESPN’s scouting report raves about Wilson’s physical gifts and two-way potential:
“Wilson’s most evident attributes are his length, explosiveness and vertical bounce with a quick second jump. His ball skills in both transition and in the half court have improved over the past year, while his agility to move in any direction is a big asset…”
When searching for NBA comparisons, scouts see shades of Pascal Siakam and Jaren Jackson Jr. in Wilson’s game. Like those rising stars, he has a rare combination of size, skill, and defensive acumen that tantalize talent evaluators.
Instant Impact for 2025-26
Wilson has the talent to step in and contribute from day one in Chapel Hill. With current starters Armando Bacot and Pete Nance set to graduate, there will be ample frontcourt minutes up for grabs as a freshman.
Surrounded by a bevy of shooters and playmakers, Wilson should feast on the open lanes his presence will create. If his outside shot continues to improve, the thought of him as a trail option in the Heels’ devastating secondary break is a scary proposition for ACC foes.
A New Carolina Dynasty?
After missing the NCAA tournament in two of the past three seasons, the Tar Heel faithful are hungry to return to the top of the college basketball world. With Wilson joining an already strong 2025 class and more talent sure to follow, Hubert Davis has UNC primed to reclaim its place on the national stage.
While one commitment alone doesn’t guarantee championships, Wilson’s pledge sends a resounding message that North Carolina is still a premier destination for elite prospects. If Davis and his staff can continue to stockpile such promising young talent, banner number eight might be on the way sooner than later.
Despite his height, Wilson is comfortable handling the ball on the perimeter and creating offense for himself and others. He spent the past summer running point for his AAU squad at times, showcasing improved vision and decision-making.
Defensively, Wilson’s quick-twitch athleticism allows him to guard multiple positions and protect the rim. He projects as the type of switchable, versatile stopper that every coach covets in today’s positionless game.
Scouting Report and Player Comparisons
ESPN’s scouting report raves about Wilson’s physical gifts and two-way potential:
“Wilson’s most evident attributes are his length, explosiveness and vertical bounce with a quick second jump. His ball skills in both transition and in the half court have improved over the past year, while his agility to move in any direction is a big asset…”
When searching for NBA comparisons, scouts see shades of Pascal Siakam and Jaren Jackson Jr. in Wilson’s game. Like those rising stars, he has a rare combination of size, skill, and defensive acumen that tantalize talent evaluators.
Instant Impact for 2025-26
Wilson has the talent to step in and contribute from day one in Chapel Hill. With current starters Armando Bacot and Pete Nance set to graduate, there will be ample frontcourt minutes up for grabs as a freshman.
Surrounded by a bevy of shooters and playmakers, Wilson should feast on the open lanes his presence will create. If his outside shot continues to improve, the thought of him as a trail option in the Heels’ devastating secondary break is a scary proposition for ACC foes.
A New Carolina Dynasty?
After missing the NCAA tournament in two of the past three seasons, the Tar Heel faithful are hungry to return to the top of the college basketball world. With Wilson joining an already strong 2025 class and more talent sure to follow, Hubert Davis has UNC primed to reclaim its place on the national stage.
While one commitment alone doesn’t guarantee championships, Wilson’s pledge sends a resounding message that North Carolina is still a premier destination for elite prospects. If Davis and his staff can continue to stockpile such promising young talent, banner number eight might be on the way sooner than later.
