The energy around North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball is building again — and it all centers on one name: Caleb Wilson.
After missing the last four games with a fractured left hand, the freshman sensation and projected top-five NBA draft pick is inching closer to a return. And if head coach Hubert Davis has anything to say about it, that return could come sooner rather than later.
Speaking during his weekly radio show at Top of the Hill Restaurant and Brewery on Wednesday, Davis gave fans exactly what they’ve been waiting to hear.
“He would play tonight, if I would let him,” Davis said with a smile.
That statement alone sent a wave of optimism through Tar Heel Nation.
A STAR WHO WANTS TO BE BACK NOW
Wilson’s competitive fire hasn’t dimmed one bit during his time away from the court. If anything, it’s burning even brighter.
“He just wants to be out on the court badly,” Davis said. “He just really does. He’s getting better every day.”
The 6-foot-10 forward suffered the injury during a Feb. 10 loss at Miami. Since then, it’s been a steady process of healing, imaging, evaluation, and disciplined recovery. Another doctor’s visit is scheduled later this week, and the coaching staff expects to re-evaluate his official timetable then.
“If everything stays like we think,” Davis added, “hopefully he’ll be back soon.”
For a team ranked No. 18 in the nation and preparing for a postseason push, “soon” couldn’t come at a better time.
UNC SURGING — EVEN WITHOUT ITS STAR
Here’s the impressive part: the Tar Heels haven’t collapsed without Wilson. In fact, they’ve won three of four games during his absence.
At 22-6 overall and 10-5 in ACC play, North Carolina is showing resilience and depth. The regular season is winding down, with three games remaining, beginning with Virginia Tech at the Smith Center on Feb. 28.
Still, there’s no denying Wilson’s importance.
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