We are getting closer to North Carolina and Duke facing off in what's going to be a thriller. With that, countless people are still focused on the Caleb Wilson injury, as it's up in the air if the 5-star freshman is going to be back in time to hit the hardwood on Saturday night.
Critics have doubted Hubert Davis, but he keeps proving everyone wrong
No decision has been made yet, but from our chair, the decision should be simple for head man Hubert Davis and his staff. Miami of course has made things easier as well. On Wednesday night, the Canes took down SMU, locking down the No. 3 seed in the ACC Tournament.
North Carolina, fresh off a Senior Night win over Clemson, will be the No. 4 seed. With the way things play out, it sets up a potential semifinals matchup with the Blue Devils next week. Knowing that, why bring back Wilson on Saturday with him being rusty/still working his way back? Instead, get in some practices if he's healthy, have him see some action in the ACC quarterfinals and then let him go all out against the Blue Devils.
NEXT STOP ➡️ CHARLOTTE@UNC_Basketball earns the No. 4 seed and a double bye in the 2026 T. Rowe Price ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament.
— ACC Men's Basketball (@accmbb) March 5, 2026
Tourney Info: https://t.co/zdohSmWZNS
Tickets: https://t.co/XX8LfqA4pE pic.twitter.com/egXPAMzdvF
Caleb Wilson injury update: UNC star's status for Duke this weekend remains unknown
We get it - there are so many UNC supporters out there who are dreaming of Wilson playing this weekend, as pulling off a series sweep against the Blue Devils sure would be sweet. However, it'd be a major risk from Davis and one he simply has to avoid.
While Wilson has been able to practice on his own and get up some shots without discomfort, it's going to be crucial for him to get in full sessions with his teammates and get back to game speed as well. Just tossing him in to play Duke at the last minute will do more harm than good.
As we've said before, this Saturday's game is not the last of the season, as the conference tourney and NCAA Tournament are right around the corner. If UNC wants to go on a deep run in both, Wilson will need to be at his best and as close to 100 percent as possible. We've said it multiple times and we'll do so again - sit Wilson vs. Duke, Hubert. No need to take a gamble here.