Caleb Wilson, the Chicago Bulls' fourth‑overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, surprised many by revealing that his first love was not basketball but baseball.
A Family Legacy Fuels a Rising Star
The 6‑foot‑7 forward credits his father, Jerry Wilson, for instilling a relentless work ethic, a lesson encapsulated in the family motto, “If you’re sleeping in, somebody’s working.” That philosophy guided Wilson through a pivotal growth spurt that redirected his athletic focus toward basketball.
Before his breakout at the University of North Carolina, Wilson honed his skills with the Amateur Athletic Union, where he crossed paths with coach Keith 'Kiki' Esparza, a mentor he plans to call once the draft celebrations settle.
Wilson’s early affinity for baseball remained evident when he was invited to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a Savannah Bananas game in April, a nod to the sport that first captured his imagination.
Looking ahead, the former Tar Heel says his ultimate priority is to help the Bulls contend for playoff success, turning the promise of his draft night into tangible results on the court.