The 2025–26 UNC basketball squad boasts a potential future NBA standout in Caleb Wilson.

It’s been several years since North Carolina last produced an NBA Draft lottery pick—Coby White and Cam Johnson were selected seventh and eleventh overall back in 2019. But five-star freshman forward Caleb Wilson could finally snap that unusual streak for the Tar Heels.

Just one day after the 2025 NBA Draft wrapped up, ESPN analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo published their early 2026 mock draft. They projected Wilson—who will soon turn 19—to be selected No. 8 overall by the Atlanta Hawks.

“At 6-foot-9, Wilson certainly looks the part,” Givony wrote. “He has a terrific frame, great length, and emerging versatility on both ends of the court that could develop into something special over time. He’s able to grab defensive rebounds and initiate transition offense with his passing.”

Givony added that while Wilson still needs to improve his consistency, especially his intensity and perimeter shooting, he possesses rare qualities and significant long-term potential.

According to the 247Sports 2025 Composite rankings, Wilson finished as the No. 5 player overall, the No. 3 power forward, and the top prospect in Georgia.

He is currently the only Tar Heel ESPN projects as a first-round pick in 2026.

Drake Powell ends the UNC basketball program’s first-round NBA draft choice drought.

Drake Powell Ends UNC Basketball’s First-Round NBA Draft Drought

For the first time in years, a North Carolina Tar Heel has heard his name called in the opening round of the NBA Draft. Drake Powell, the dynamic wing whose steady rise captivated Chapel Hill, officially ended the program’s first-round selection drought when he was taken with the 22nd overall pick on Thursday night.

Powell’s selection marks a significant milestone for UNC, which, despite its rich tradition of producing NBA talent, had gone multiple drafts without seeing one of its stars crack the first round. That streak was finally snapped as Powell celebrated on stage, donning his new team’s cap and sharing an emotional embrace with family and former coaches.

“This is a dream come true,” Powell said moments after being selected. “North Carolina has given me everything, and I’m so proud to represent this program at the next level.”

A Steady Climb to the Top

After arriving in Chapel Hill as a highly touted recruit, Powell quickly developed into one of the ACC’s most reliable two-way players. His versatility, smooth scoring touch, and defensive toughness turned heads all season, and he played a pivotal role in leading the Tar Heels to a deep NCAA Tournament run.

Scouts praised Powell’s high basketball IQ, strong work ethic, and ability to impact the game without always dominating the stat sheet. Leading up to the draft, his stock steadily climbed as teams recognized his potential to contribute immediately as a pro.

Ending the Drought

UNC’s absence of first-round picks in recent years had become a talking point among fans and analysts alike, especially for a program synonymous with NBA success stories—Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, James Worthy, and so many more. Powell’s selection not only reaffirms Carolina’s reputation as a talent pipeline but also signals that the program remains a force in developing NBA-ready players.

Head coach Hubert Davis called the moment “a proud day for our Carolina family.”

“Drake embodies everything you want in a Tar Heel—humility, toughness, and a commitment to team over self,” Davis said. “He has worked tirelessly to reach this point, and I couldn’t be happier for him.”

A New Chapter Begins

As Powell embarks on his professional career, he carries the hopes of Carolina fans eager to see their program’s stars shine at the highest level once again. For Powell, the journey is just beginning—but on draft night, he made history by ending a drought and restoring a proud tradition.

Tar Heel Nation can once again celebrate seeing Carolina blue on the NBA’s biggest stage.