Nets' NBA Draft Prospect Makes Plans Clear With Instagram Post

Caleb Wilson, a potential top pick for the Brooklyn Nets, announces he's leaving UNC to enter the 2026 NBA Draft.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:54pm

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Caleb Wilson, a standout freshman forward for the University of North Carolina, has announced his plans to forgo the remainder of his college career and enter the 2026 NBA Draft. Wilson, who was sidelined by a season-ending hand injury before the ACC and NCAA tournaments, took to Instagram to indirectly let his followers know he is leaving UNC and heading to the professional ranks.

Why it matters

The Brooklyn Nets are among the NBA teams with the best odds to land a top pick in the 2026 draft, and Wilson is projected to be selected within the top 5 picks. If the Nets are able to secure Wilson, he could become a key piece in their rebuilding efforts as they look to return to contention in the Eastern Conference.

The details

During his lone season at UNC, the 6'9" Wilson averaged impressive numbers, posting 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game while shooting 57.8% from the field. His strong performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, despite missing the postseason tournaments due to his hand injury.

  • Wilson suffered a season-ending hand injury before UNC's appearance in the ACC and NCAA tournaments.
  • Wilson announced his plans to enter the 2026 NBA Draft via an Instagram post after UNC's tournament run concluded.

The players

Caleb Wilson

A 6'9" freshman forward who played for the University of North Carolina and is now declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft.

Brooklyn Nets

An NBA team that is among the lottery clubs with a strong chance of landing a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, potentially giving them the opportunity to select Caleb Wilson.

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What they’re saying

“never take it for granted 🩵 #8out”

— Caleb Wilson

What’s next

The Brooklyn Nets will continue to evaluate their options for the 2026 NBA Draft, with Caleb Wilson emerging as a potential target given his strong freshman season at UNC and the Nets' position in the draft lottery.

The takeaway

Caleb Wilson's decision to enter the 2026 NBA Draft after a standout freshman season at UNC has put him on the radar of teams like the Brooklyn Nets, who are well-positioned to potentially select him with a top pick. Wilson's combination of size, scoring ability, and all-around production make him an intriguing prospect, and his potential addition could be a significant boost for the Nets as they look to rebuild and return to contention in the Eastern Conference.