UNC Star Caleb Wilson Vows to Return After Hand Fracture

The star freshman suffered the injury during a loss against Miami but remains optimistic about his recovery.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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North Carolina basketball star Caleb Wilson announced he suffered a hand fracture during Tuesday's loss against Miami, but the five-star freshman declared he "will be back" for the Tar Heels this season. Wilson is a projected NBA lottery pick and is averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game for North Carolina.

Why it matters

Wilson's injury is a significant blow to the Tar Heels, who are facing a tough stretch of ranked opponents in the final weeks of the regular season. His absence could impact North Carolina's postseason positioning, but the team and fans remain hopeful he will return before the end of the year.

The details

Wilson suffered the hand fracture during Tuesday's loss to Miami. No official timeline has been set for his return, but the star freshman took to social media to declare he "will be back" for North Carolina this season. Wilson is a projected lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and has been a key contributor for the Tar Heels, averaging nearly 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists per game.

  • Wilson suffered the hand fracture during Tuesday's loss against Miami.
  • North Carolina announced the injury on Thursday.

The players

Caleb Wilson

A five-star freshman and projected NBA lottery pick, averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game for North Carolina.

Hubert Davis

The head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, who has praised Wilson's potential and development this season.

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What they’re saying

“I am grateful for whatever God is trying to tell me through this injury!!! I will be back Tarheel Nation… I LOVE THIS TEAM AND PROGRAM #StayTuned”

— Caleb Wilson (X)

“I'm just so thankful that I've gotten an opportunity just to be able, obviously, to coach him, but just to have a front row seat to see this kid just develop and get better. As good as Caleb is, he has a lot more improvement to go. I don't think anybody can see the ceiling, it's that high for him. It's just such a joy to coach him.”

— Hubert Davis, North Carolina Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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