Wilson makes it official, leaving Heels for draft

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. --North CarolinafreshmanCaleb Wilsonis headed to the NBA draft after what he called "the most fun year of my life" playing for the Tar Heels.

The program released a video statement Monday from the 6-foot-10 forward regarded as a top prospect in the June draft. That made Wilson's one-and-done route official, coming after he had posted an "#8out" message on social media late last month indicating he was headed in that anticipated direction.

"I am grateful for the opportunity I had to represent North Carolina," Wilson said. "Wearing No. 8, running out of that historic tunnel every day for practice and games, and i'm happy to say every day I gave it my all."

Wilson averaged 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds in a dynamic season that was cut short by injury, first a broken bone in his left hand days after a thrilling win against rival Duke. Then, when he was on the verge of returning, he broke his right thumb in a noncontact drill to end his season on the eve of the second game against the Blue Devils.

Still, Wilson was named a second-team Associated Press All-American, a distinction that will ensure that he will be included among the honored jerseys in the Smith Center rafters.

He is projected to go fourth inESPN's latest mock draftfor the star-studded 2026 class.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.