Caleb Wilson Chooses UNC Over Kentucky in Major Recruiting Decision

Top-10 senior prospect Caleb Wilson, one of the most sought-after uncommitted recruits in the 2025 class, has committed to the University of North Carolina, choosing the Tar Heels over Kentucky and Ohio State.

Ranked No. 6 in the ESPN 100, Wilson cited UNC’s rich tradition and culture as key factors in his decision.

“I chose North Carolina because of their culture and the history of the program,” Wilson told ESPN. “They were my first blue blood offer. Last year I attended the Duke-UNC game courtside, and it was an amazing experience. It had everything I was looking for in a program.”

The 6-foot-9 forward experienced a lengthy recruitment process, with numerous programs vying for his commitment. Kentucky initially appeared to be a frontrunner, with former head coach John Calipari prioritizing Wilson during his tenure. Calipari continued to pursue Wilson even after moving to Arkansas, but ultimately, UNC and Kentucky emerged as the leading contenders.

In recent weeks, the recruitment battle intensified, with both programs making strong pitches. However, UNC head coach Hubert Davis successfully secured Wilson, marking his first five-star commitment of the cycle. This win is significant for Davis, who had previously missed out on high-profile targets such as A.J. Dybantsa (No. 1) and Braylon Mullins (No. 25).

“I love the passion and energy of Coach Hubert Davis,” Wilson said. “I know he will push me to be my best and support me at the same time. He’s honest and straightforward, and that’s what I want. We’ve watched film together, and he’s shown me where I can improve. He’s a man of faith, and we have a great connection. He plays his freshmen, and I plan to help UNC win big and hopefully become a one-and-done.”

Wilson has been regarded as one of the premier frontcourt players in the 2025 class. During his junior year on the Nike EYBL circuit, he averaged 15.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. Teaming up with Cameron and Cayden Boozer on Nightrydas Elite, he played a key role in securing a Peach Jam championship, where he posted 17.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 62% from the field.

Wilson’s standout qualities include his length, explosiveness, and vertical leap, combined with an improved ability to move and score in transition. His agility allows him to navigate tight defenses, and his footwork and quickness make him a dangerous off-ball cutter. He poses a matchup challenge with his ability to shoot from distance, handle the ball, and facilitate plays, while also proving to be a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions.

With Wilson’s commitment, North Carolina now boasts three ESPN 100 recruits in its 2025 class, joining four-star guards Derek Dixon and Isaiah Denis. The Tar Heels will face a crucial offseason, with RJ Davis set to graduate and freshmen Drake Powell and Ian Jackson projected as first-round NBA draft picks.

UNC, however, faces challenges on the court, having lost its last two games to Stanford and Wake Forest, bringing their record to 12-8 overall and 5-3 in ACC play heading into their upcoming matchup against Boston College.