Heel Tough Blog: Caleb Wilson's Jersey to Be Honored in Dean Dome Rafters

Despite having his freshman season cut short because of a fractured wrist injury, followed by a broken thumb, Caleb Wilson earned All-American honors from the Associated Press, meaning he’ll become the 54th Tar Heel to have his jersey honored in the rafters at the Smith Center. At the time of his injury, Wilson led UNC in points and rebounds, and during his absence, his assists per game average now leads Carolina too. Wilson is the most decorated UNC freshman from a statistical perspective, setting a new school-record for most points per game, 20-point games, and the longest streak of games scoring in double figures to begin a UNC career (24). 

This honor comes after Wilson earned various awards from the 2025-26 ACC season, including First Team All-ACC and the ACC All-Freshman team. Wilson joins Tyler Hansbrough as the only two Tar Heels to earn the right to have their jersey honored in the Dean Dome after their freshman seasons, as Wilson achieved the honor in just 24 games played. 

Wilson is expected to be a lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, but has not yet announced his decision on the matter. That decision is expected shortly after the Tar Heels’ season comes to an end. Carolina begins NCAA Tournament play on Thursday against VCU at 6:50 on TNT. 

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