UNC Basketball Phenom Breaks Into Elite Top 20 Finalists — Is the Trophy Within Reach?

Oh, man, Tuesday night did not go as the North Carolina Tar Heels hoped—no surprise there if you caught that heart-stopping game the night before. Coming off a tough showdown with Duke, UNC looked like it was running on fumes against Miami, who took full advantage and clinched a crucial 75-66 victory to bolster their NCAA Tournament resume. Now, here’s the twist—Caleb Wilson, the Tar Heels’ shining star, had one of his quieter nights, dropping just 12 points, clearly hampered by a sprained wrist. Despite that setback, Wilson’s inclusion on the Wooden Award Top 20 Watch List confirms he’s firmly among college basketball’s elite. With UNC’s championship ambitions on the line, all eyes are on Wilson’s recovery and the team’s next moves. Curious about how it all unfolded and what’s next for the Tar Heels? LEARN MORE

Tuesday night wasn’t the outcome your North Carolina Tar Heels wanted on the basketball court, but after Saturday night’s thriller, you shouldn’t be surprised.

UNC (19-5, 7-4 ACC) always a hangover after playing Duke – and that showed at Miami (FL). The Hurricanes (19-5, 8-3 ACC) won 75-66 against North Carolina, getting the signature win they needed for serious NCAA Tournament consideration.

Tar Heels superstar Caleb Wilson struggled by his own standards against Miami, scoring a season-low 12 points and grabbing six rebounds, though he added three blocks. Wilson sprained his left wrist during the contest, which could be a reason behind his off-night.

Still one of the best players in college basketball, Wilson recently earned himself a spot on the Wooden Award Top 20 Watch List.

The Wooden Award is annually given to the best players in men’s and women’s college basketball. Given Wilson’s inclusion in the final 20, it’s safe to say media and college basketball fans everywhere agree he’s amongst the game’s best.

UNC knew it was getting a star in Wilson upon his commitment, but fans never realized he’d turn into one of the game’s most dominant players. Wilson currently averages 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, consistently scoring 20 on any given night, while showcasing a rare combination of hustle and vocal leadership from a freshman.

If North Carolina doesn’t get Wilson back for Saturday, which should be an easy win against Pitt, it’ll rely heavier on 7-foot center Henri Veesaar. The ACC’s leader in double-doubles, Veesaar can beat opponents offensive down low – or step out and hit the occasional 3-pointer.

The Tar Heels will need Wilson back if they want to chase a seventh NCAA Tournament Championship, so letting him rest Saturday may be the best course of action. Regardless of what happens this season, Tar Heel Nation is forever grateful Wilson chose to play his lone college hoops campaign in Chapel Hill.

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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: Caleb Wilson tabbed a Top 20 finalist for Wooden Award