When was the last time a freshman meant so much to the program like this for North Carolina? Yup, it's safe to say that despite only being in Chapel Hill for one season, Caleb Wilson will always be a fan favorite. But wait, is it not a lock that he's going to say goodbye to UNC soon?
Did Caleb Wilson give UNC fans hope they didn't know existed for a potential return?
In a bit of a stunner, Wilson appeared to leave the door open on social media for him to make a return for the 2026-27 campaign. It felt like his comment came with a major catch, as multiple reports have stated he'll be one and done, while he's also projected to be a Top 5 pick in the NBA Draft.
On paper, sure, the decision should be an easy one for the Atlanta product, as it has always been his dream to play in the league and being a Top 5 pick is something he can't overlook. With that said, the NBA isn't going anywhere and Wilson only gets to play college ball once. So, is staying put something he actually should consider? Let's make a case for it.
Caleb Wilson still has the chance to end his UNC career the right way
For starters, Wilson hasn't held back in letting everyone know what being a Tar Heel means to him. Hubert Davis said he was 'devastated' after breaking his thumb on a dunk in practice, as Wilson was going all-in to play against Duke last weekend and then to suit up for the Heels in the ACC tourney.
His last memories of playing for North Carolina are currently suffering a fracture in his hand against Miami and then breaking his thumb in practice. Come on, that's now how he's supposed to make his exit - he deserves a way better UNC sendoff than that.
Looking ahead to next season too, North Carolina is bringing in elite 5-star talent in Dylan Mingo and Maximo Adams, while Malloy Smith, Kenny Smith's son, is also UNC-bound. Mingo is one of the best players in the country and a backcourt of him and Derek Dixon has people talking already.
Imagine Wilson also on the hardwood, plus Henri Veesaar and others. Might Davis and his staff make a strong run for top transfer talent too once the portal opens? That's always going to be on the table and if the Heels can sell to Wilson that this team will push for a Final Four run next year, it could intrigue him.
Again, on paper the decision feels like it's a simple one for wilson: go to the NBA and get ready for this next step in life. Still, if Wilson decides to push his pro career back a year and end his Tar Heel days the right way, it's something he's got to at least consider. Tar Heels fans everywhere would of course be over the moon if he shocks us all here. Never say never?