UNC Freshman Caleb Wilson Out for Season After Thumb Surgery
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North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 college basketball season after breaking his right thumb during Thursday’s practice, the university announced.
Shams Charania of ESPN first reported the injury on social media, noting that the 6’10” freshman was hurt while attempting a dunk in a non-contact drill. Wilson underwent surgery to repair the fracture and is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the year.
Despite the setback, Wilson is projected to be cleared for basketball activities in time for the pre-draft process, according to Charania. Widely considered a top-five prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft, he consistently appears on draft boards just behind Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, and Cameron Boozer.
Wilson has delivered an exceptional debut season in Chapel Hill, averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks in 31.3 minutes over 24 games. However, injuries have disrupted his spring campaign. He fractured his left hand on Feb. 10, missing several weeks before receiving clearance for individual workouts. Thursday’s thumb injury occurred prior to his anticipated return to game action.
Assuming a full recovery by draft time, the latest injury is not expected to alter Wilson’s standing among NBA scouts.
Source: Hoops Rumors
