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Myron Medcalf
Multiple Authors
A week after sustaining a fractured left hand, North Carolina’s standout Caleb Wilson is adapting to playing with a cast on his non-shooting hand and is getting closer to a comeback, according to coach Hubert Davis.
Davis noted that Wilson, who incurred the injury during a defeat to Miami on Feb. 10, has been an encouraging teammate as the No. 16 Tar Heels gear up for Selection Sunday.
“Caleb is doing great,” Davis shared Monday night on his semiweekly radio show. “I believe if I said ‘go ahead,’ he’d be eager to play with his cast or splint on. He’s so excited to return because he truly enjoys the game, his teammates, and playing here.”
plus, Davis remarked: “He’ll be back on the court soon, which is fantastic.”
Wilson is currently averaging 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds and has established a UNC freshman record by scoring in double figures in every game (24) this season. Prior to the loss to Miami, he scored 23 points in a home victory against rival Duke on Feb. 7.
Viewed as a likely top-five selection in the 2026 NBA draft by ESPN, Wilson exited the game against Miami after sustaining the injury but did return for the second half, finishing with just 12 points—his lowest total of the season.
Davis mentioned that they were unaware of the injury’s severity until the team got back to Chapel Hill, where an MRI confirmed the fracture.
On Thursday, the university announced that Wilson is out “indefinitely.”
Davis noted that Wilson is already participating in practice, eager to make his return. He commended the freshman for not adopting a “woe is me” mindset and instead focusing on uplifting his teammates.
“He did the exact opposite,” said Davis. “He’s in practice, dribbling with his right hand, and actively involved in huddles.”
Before Wilson’s injury, UNC was ranked ninth in adjusted offensive efficiency since Jan. 3, per barttorvik.com. The victory over Duke capped a five-game winning streak for a UNC squad that was anxious about Selection Sunday last year, but should not face the same uncertainty this season, depending on Wilson’s condition.
The Tar Heels defeated Pitt 79-65 on Saturday without Wilson and another key player, Henri Veesaar. Davis remarked that he reviewed the game film and praised Wilson’s supportive presence on the sidelines, which energized the team during a tough match.
Upcoming for North Carolina are four matchups against top-35 KenPom teams, including a rematch with Duke in Durham on March 7, which will serve as the regular-season finale for both squads.
“You won’t find a better player, persons, or teammate than Caleb,” Davis declared. “It’s simply impossible. He exemplifies positivity even when dealing with challenges regarding his hand, proving to be a remarkable teammate.”
