According to CBS Sports. The 2026 NBA Draft is shaping up as a competitive event with several top prospects vying for the top spots. In the latest version of their mock draft, North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson was projected to go second overall to the Utah Jazz, moving ahead of Kansas guard Darryn Peterson.

Wilson’s Rising Stock

Caleb Wilson. A one-and-done prospect from North Carolina, has impressed scouts with his combination of size, athleticism, and defensive versatility; According to CBS Sports, Utah has a deep frontcourt but lacks a player with Wilson’s quickness and long-term upside. Wilson is seen as a potential building block for the Jazz, who already have players like Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr.

Wilson’s move up in the draft order highlights how team needs and roster construction can influence the final outcome more than raw talent alone. His ability to grow gradually into an All-Star, without demanding heavy playmaking responsibilities as a rookie, makes him an attractive fit for a team in transition.

AJ Dybantsa Remains No. 1

BYU forward AJ Dybantsa was projected to remain the No. 1 overall pick by CBS Sports and other outlets — Dybantsa’s combination of size, scoring ability, and shot creation makes him a standout prospect. According to On3. He averaged 25.5 points per game in college, and many scouts consider him the best prospect available.

However, unlike recent top draft classes featuring generational talents like Victor Wembanyama or Cooper Flagg, the 2026 class is seen as deep but without a clear standout. Alongside Dybantsa. Prospects like Darryn Peterson. Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson are also heavily discussed as top-tier options.

Wilson’s Connection to UNC Legacy

While the draft talk continues, Caleb Wilson also made headlines for his personal connection to North Carolina basketball history; According to Keeping It Heel, Wilson met with James “Big Game” Worthy, a Hall of Famer and former UNC legend. Wilson, who wore the No. 8 jersey at UNC, is set to have it retired alongside Worthy’s No. 52 in the Dean Smith Center rafters.

Wilson embraced his role as a Tar Heel, and his appearance at the NBA Finals as a Player Correspondent also drew praise. He shared a photo with Worthy, a moment that highlighted the importance of legacy and tradition in college basketball.

As the draft approaches, Wilson’s rise in the rankings and his personal story have made him a standout prospect both on and off the court.