Caleb Wilson Shines as UNC’s Star Debuts at NBA Summer League

Hubert Davis Watches Former Tar Heel Shine in Las Vegas

Coach Hubert Davis traveled to Las Vegas to see former Tar Heel Caleb Wilson in action during the NBA Summer League. Davis, who also joined former assistant Jeff Lebo on the baseline, observed Wilson’s second Bulls game against the Utah Jazz on Monday, July 13, at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Center. It was a memorable trip for Davis, who had earlier traveled to Brooklyn, N.Y., to witness the Chicago Bulls select Wilson with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

“It was such a blessing and honor to be there to watch him get drafted,” Davis said during the second quarter of Chicago’s matchup against Utah on ESPN. “Caleb and I have known each other such a long time,” he added, praising Wilson’s rare blend of skill and character. Davis emphasized that Wilson’s work ethic and leadership have marked his time in Chicago.

Wilson’s Statistical Impact in Summer League Play

Wilson’s professional debut against the Memphis Grizzlies produced 35 points, including seven 3‑pointers—matching his total made over 24 ACC games with the Tar Heels. He continues to sharpen his perimeter shooting, now practicing 2,000 to 2,500 shots daily ahead of his rookie season. Wilson also highlights his ability to finish at the rim, having led the nation with 66 dunks before an injury sidelined him on February 10.

“People are making a big deal – and they should – that he made seven 3s in his first preseason game,” Davis noted. “This is a guy who, before and after practice, in the mornings, late at night, he’d always be in the gym working on his shot.”

Other UNC Alumni Competing in Las Vegas

Beyond Wilson, several other former Tar Heels are making their mark in the summer league, including standout RJ Davis and Henri Veesaar. Davis, who has coached eight former players now in professional ranks, said the relationships built over years are the most rewarding part of his presence. “We’ve got eight UNC guys that I’ve coached,” he commented. “Relationships is the biggest part for me.”

The summer league serves as a showcase for these alumni, offering a platform to impress scouts and prove their readiness for the next level. Davis’s own coaching résumé—125‑24 record, 2022 Final Four appearance, national championship run in his debut season, 2024 Sweet 16 and ACC regular‑season title—adds context to his current role as a mentor and supporter.

As the Bulls prepare for the upcoming season, Davis remains optimistic about Wilson’s future impact. “His passion to be out there on the floor … I got to see it every day in practice and in the games,” he said. “But just his joy to be able to play basketball, it’s infectious and I’m looking forward to what he does in Chicago.”

With Wilson’s blend of scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility, and Davis’s continued influence across multiple rosters, the Tar Heels’ summer league presence signals a promising chapter for UNC basketball on the professional stage.