BREAKING NEWS: North Carolina is expected to Caleb Wilson back in action next week after missing time with…
BREAKING NEWS: North Carolina Tar Heels are expected to have standout forward Caleb Wilson back in action next week after he missed time with a lower-body injury, sources close to the program confirmed Thursday.
Wilson, one of the team’s most dynamic two-way contributors, has been sidelined since early February after suffering the injury during a hard-fought conference matchup. While the program has been cautious in publicly detailing the specifics, head coach Hubert Davis indicated earlier this week that Wilson had “progressed extremely well” in rehab and was nearing a return to full practice participation.
The timing could not be better for the Tar Heels.
As the regular season winds down and postseason positioning intensifies, North Carolina has battled through a challenging stretch without one of its most versatile weapons. Wilson’s absence has been felt on both ends of the floor — particularly in transition defense, weak-side rim protection, and late-clock scoring situations where his athleticism and poise often make the difference.
Before the injury, Wilson was averaging career-best numbers in points and rebounds while serving as a defensive anchor in switch-heavy schemes. His ability to guard multiple positions allowed North Carolina to mix coverages seamlessly, creating matchup problems for opponents throughout conference play.
In the games he missed, the Tar Heels leaned more heavily on their backcourt scoring and half-court execution. While the team managed to stay competitive, there were visible gaps in rebounding margins and second-chance opportunities — areas where Wilson’s motor and length typically shine.
According to team insiders, Wilson has resumed non-contact drills and is expected to participate in limited live action over the weekend. If he responds well, he could be cleared for full game action early next week, potentially returning just in time for a pivotal conference showdown that may have major implications for tournament seeding.
Medical staff have reportedly emphasized a cautious ramp-up process, ensuring Wilson regains full lateral mobility and explosion before logging extended minutes. The expectation is that he will initially come off the bench in a controlled role, with his minutes gradually increasing as he regains conditioning and rhythm.
Teammates have expressed excitement about his return.
“Caleb brings an energy you can’t replace,” one teammate said following practice. “When he’s out there, it changes everything — defensively, emotionally, all of it.”
For North Carolina, the boost extends beyond statistics. Wilson’s leadership and competitiveness have been central to the team’s identity this season. His return could reestablish the defensive intensity that defined the Tar Heels during their strongest stretch earlier in the year.
With March looming and championship aspirations still very much alive, getting Wilson back at full strength may be the difference between simply making noise and making a deep postseason run.
If all goes according to plan, Tar Heel fans won’t have to wait much longer to see No. 24 back on the floor — and his return could not come at a more crucial moment.