Caleb Wilson earns national recognition with major award watch list nod

Caleb Wilson's historic UNC season earns national award watch list honor.
Jan 21, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Caleb Wilson (8) scores in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Jan 21, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Caleb Wilson (8) scores in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Adding to his historic season, North Carolina's Caleb Wilson has been named to the Malone Award Midseason Top 10 Watch List, recognizing him as one of the nation's elite power forwards.

The Malone Award is given annually to the nation’s top power forward, a title most certainly fitting of Caleb Wilson, and what he has been able to accomplish this year for the Tar Heels. His consistent dominance on both ends of the court has been nothing short of special to watch, and rightfully makes him one of the most impactful players in college basketball. 

Fan voting for the award will begin Friday, February 6th, at www.hoophallawards.com. Tar Heel fans can show their support by voting for Wilson and helping him become the recipient of the prestigious award. The final five nominees will be narrowed down in mid-March.

To summarize, what Wilson has been able to produce for North Carolina this year is remarkable. The freshman phenom is essentially averaging a double-double with 20.0 points per game and 9.8 rebounds per game, numbers that place him among the elite forwards in the country.

His ability to score efficiently in the paint, crash the glass, and be a leader in what some would consider the best frontcourt in the country, has been instrumental to the Tar Heels' success.

Beyond the statistics, Wilson has emerged as a leader for this North Carolina team. He's shown up in the biggest moments, delivered when his team needed him most, and carried the offensive load night after night. His versatility and two-way impact have made him crucial for Hubert Davis's system.

Wilson has steadily positioned himself among not only the best power forwards in the nation, but among the best players, period. He has dominated on both sides of the ball, showcasing the kind of consistency and excellence that defines award-worthy seasons.

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