The fact that a couple of freak injuries have robbed us all of more Caleb Wilson this season is downright deflating. With Wilson suffering his broken thumb on Thursday in practice, his 2025-26 campaign is over. Matter of fact, it's safe to say we've seen the last of him in a North Carolina jersey.
Caleb Wilson reacts to his season-ending injury in an emotional social media post
From the moment his new injury was revealed, plenty of fans have been hoping that maybe, just maybe, the 5-star freshman would run things back and return to Chapel Hill for another season. While the thought of that is incredible, it's not going to happen. Wilson seemed to confirm that with his initial response on social media on Friday. Shortly after, his three-word message for fans gave us a major hint on his future plans too:
What a ride!
— Caleb Wilson (@CalebWilson2025) March 7, 2026
UNC star Caleb Wilson is projected to be a Top 5 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft
The 'What a Ride!' message really says a lot here. No one can blame Wilson for leaving UNC after just one season, as his dream has always been to play in the NBA and be a first-round pick. At this point, it'd be a major shocker if he doesn't go in the Top 5.
Also, you've got to figure the rough injury news he's received over the last month has him thinking about his future. First, he suffered a fracture in his left hand on an unfortunate play against Miami. Then, he broke his thumb while dunking in practice? Talk about terrible luck.
Because of this, Wilson and his family probably realize that if he does return to college, he'll be at risk of more injuries and it could ruin his draft stock down the road. Instead, his focus right now should be on getting back to 100 percent and impressing scouts leading up to this year's draft.
For a while, the expectation has been that Wilson would be one and done for Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels. He finished this year averaging just under 20 points per game, while also becoming a fan favorite from the moment he stepped on campus. Again, the idea of Wilson playing for Carolina next year is enough to make everyone smile, but it's just not going to happen.